2 Manitoba seniors. 8 kids. 24 grandkids. 5 great-grandkids — all decked out in Canada mittens

As part of CBC's What's Your Story campaign, we're asking Canadians to tell us about the one object they would submit to a collection of national treasures, objects that contain the strongest feelings, personal histories and vivid memories of our diverse population.

For the Van Walleghem family, it's an annual gift of Canada-themed mittens.  

If you think about it, grandparents and mittens have a lot in common. Both make you feel warm and cozy, and both look great in pairs. Perhaps that's why Frances and George Van Walleghem's annual gift tradition is so fitting.

For the past three years, the Manitoba seniors have given a pair of Canada-themed mittens to their whole clan at Christmas — that's eight kids, 24 grandkids and five great-grandkids (and counting!) plus spouses and boyfriends and girlfriends.

The mitts slip straight onto excited fingers, adding a little more flare to the family photo.

Winnipeggers might recognize the family name from the École Van Walleghem School and Van Wallegham park, which sit on the site of the original dairy farm owned by the Van Walleghems. The family moved to Waverley West as the city grew and urbanized.

The family, too, has grown over the years. Nearly 60 people snuggled into the Van Wallenghem home this past Christmas. Family photos track the growth of their children — four boys and four girls — and their children's children. 

"There is no wall left. We're pretty much going on the ceiling now with pictures," laughs Melody, who married one of the middle children, David.

In the hustle and bustle of a family so big, lost mittens are a common problem.

"We have gone through dozens of pairs of mittens through the years of children and grandchildren losing and finding them, so we thought it would be nice for all of us to have matching mitts," says Frances, who also bought pairs for herself and her husband. 

"They were perfect because we are proud Canadians and are so fortunate to live in this country. Even our families who live in the U.S. wear their Canada mittens with pride!" 

The warmth of inclusion

Before the mittens, the devout Catholics turned to other stocking stuffers at Christmas — but the mittens quickly stood out as crowd pleasers. 

"They are always the biggest hit. We all wear them with pride," says Melody.

The little ones get child-sized versions, and older family members sport them while enjoying cold beverages.

But Katie, the oldest granddaughter, says the mittens are much more than hand warmers. Every single person, including boyfriends and girlfriends, gets a pair.

"It's about inclusion and not letting anyone feel left out," she says.

When asked to describe how they felt about George and Frances, several family members used the words "unconditional love" and "support."

"They appreciate everyone's efforts," says grandchild Jenna. 

"They are supportive of everyone, always," adds Cameron, another grandkid. 

Nearly 60 years of love

George and Frances know a thing or two about holding on to something good.

The pair have been married for nearly 60 years, having originally met back in their school days. George's sister Joan played matchmaker. George called Fran, and the rest is history. 

Both seniors have roots in Belgium. George's grandfather immigrated from the Western European nation, as did Frances's father — making her a first generation Canadian. The pair have visited the country, where one nephew lives, and 24 others over the years. 

They've also played tourist all across Canada. But when they're home in Manitoba, they are very present in the lives of their offspring. 

Frances says it's been wonderful to watch generations of family members grow up. She's seen her both her own kids and her grandkids become parents. "What a thrill! Our family gives us so much joy." 

"We're so lucky that we can be here, at this age, and still see all our children and grandchildren," adds 80-year-old George. (Frances is two years younger.) 

The Van Walleghems don't take their time together for granted, or limit their big get-togethers to holidays. 

"Frances makes brunch every Sunday," notes Melody, adding that the weekly meal is open to whoever can make it. It's not uncommon to see up to 25 people eating together on an average Sunday. 

When asked what message they would like to pass on to future generations, Frances says, "family will always be there to laugh, pray and cry together. I want them to support each other, have fun together and keep family traditions alive." 

Well, kiddos, you heard grandma. You'd better get used to mitten shopping.