Christmas

     

      Christmas was arranged a little differently for us this year. It wasn't a bad sort of different, but not arranged the way we usually have it. Now that the grandchildren are growing up, the daughters and their families want to begin their own Christmas traditions and have Christmas morning in their own homes.  It was decided that everyone would come over to our house for Christmas dinner and we would celebrate together that evening. Daughter #2 and her family from New Hampshire couldn't come this year, but daughters #1,3, and 4 would all be here. We were excited in anticipation of our celebration together and dinner was all planned.

     Steve and I were alone for Christmas Eve. We spent the early part of the evening at Mass. I joined the choir last spring and we practiced beautiful songs all through Advent. Immersing myself in the music was a wonderful way to mark the season. I enjoy the shared experience of singing with everyone. When we returned home, we cooked dinner for the two of us and ate by candlelight. It was different from Christmas Eves of the past forty years when some of the children would be with us, but as I mentioned before, it wasn't a bad sort of different. 

     Christmas morning and all day was quietly spent preparing the meal. We kept soft Christmas music playing in the background. When everyone arrived at five o'clock, there was much talking and excitement over the holiday. The children only asked a little about when it would be time for gifts while we enjoyed the meal. Afterward, we sat in the living room, opened gifts and visited well in to the evening. 

     The grandchildren are growing up and they don't need to be followed or chased after anymore to be kept safe. They take part in the conversation and share their own interesting stories with us. I sense a shift in the family dynamic as everyone grows and changes. Not too long ago, Steve and I led the family. As the parents, we guided our children in the direction in which we all needed to go. Now, our children's lives are beginning to lead ours. As they solidify their careers and locations of home, they are taking lead of their families. To a certain degree, Steve and I are becoming the followers.

     Wherever we all happen to be at Christmas time, as long as we are united in family spirit, we are good. In our hearts, we are home together and cherished memories are held close. Our faith further unites us in the celebration of our Savior at Christmas We contemplate what the new year will bring and we look forward to any opportunities we will have to gather together in the coming year.