Christmas at Baba’s house has been a tradition for decades.
In 1991 Aimy Thiessen told her soon-to-be-husband they had to go to Baba’s in Ituna for Christmas because she was 79 and it could be her last one.
Fast forward 28-years. Baba is still kicking at the age of 107, and insists on hosting 30 to 40 people in her tiny 1,000 square foot home.
The celebrations start Christmas Eve with everyone arriving to eat soup cooked on the wood stove and homemade bread.
“We sing Christmas carols together, play games together and go to church because Baba says we have to. And then of course the big meal comes out after midnight,” said Thiessen. “Lots of shenanigans that go on between all the generations and it’s something I would not change for the world.”
There will be four generations represented this year. Thiessen said most of the family choose to sleep over, even if that means finding a spot on the kitchen floor.
While Baba is still in charge, the aunts and uncles have since taken over the cooking duties.
“Up until about four years ago she was still making periogies for Christmas and cabbage rolls.”
The house has no showers, and no wi-fi, but no one seems to mind because Thiessen said the house is full of people, food and love.