Canceled in 2020, restricted in 2021, then too risky to go there in 2022: Christmas will finally not yet take place for many families.
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“It’s very hard for us. I’m sad because it’s the first time we won’t be celebrating Christmas with my mother,” sighs Sylvie Matte, who lives in Boston.
Every year, the 56-year-old woman from Mont-Laurier traveled the 600 km that separate her from her family to celebrate the holiday season. A journey of 10 to 12 hours, if we add the expected snow and ice.
“My spouse, my daughter and I will finally stay in pajamas while eating tourtière and unwrapping gifts,” explains Ms. Matte, who still plans to make a video call with her loved ones.
Scattered Christmas
The bad weather conditions also played spoilsport for Marie-Aimée Labbé, whose son is stuck in Vancouver, where the planes are already grounded.
The duo was to leave Quebec to go to the community of Pessamit and join Mrs. Labbé’s mother-in-law. She finally decided to find her daughter-in-law to avoid being alone for Christmas.
“We went to buy provisions to be ready for any eventuality. For New Year’s Eve, it will go to later this week, when everyone will be there, ”says the 50-year-old woman.
Ruined Homecoming
For his part, Éric Desmarchais intended to put the package for this Christmas in the company of his children and his mother. A first for several years.
From Napierville, he had reserved rooms in a hotel in Quebec City for the whole weekend, for his relatives and himself. He eventually had to cancel.
“It was their gift to be able to spend that time together. This storm better be up to it! “plagues the 51-year-old man who will instead invite his family for dinner on December 25.