Randy and I have had such a crazy busy month, from my 15 writing deadlines and his 15 holiday parties to cater, we've hardly had time to think about Christmas, let alone put gifts under the tree. But we wanted to have all the kids and grandkids over to our house before our Christmas road trip and today was the day we decided on.
You should have seen us this morning! Him running one way, me running the other, and eventually us running together. From wrapping gifts for each other to take with us when we leave town tomorrow, to wrapping presents for the grandkids, to filling pantyhose full of practical gifts for his kids (everything from toiletries to their favorite snacks -- I love this tradition of his!), to filling the kitchen with clam chowder and bread bowls, chili, spinach dip, cookies, cookies, and more cookies!
But the most wonderful thing happened. As soon as all the kids walked into the house, we sat down and all the fussing stopped. It didn't matter that there was still a list a mile long that didn't get completed. None of that was as important as the people who filled the room.
We ate, we played games, we strung popcorn and cranberries on the tree, we walked the dogs, we watched a movie while eating (again!) and playing more games, we opened presents, we talked, we laughed, we popped crackers, and we sent the kids all home with leftovers. And the only complaint was that we couldn't squeeze in even more!
My prayer is that each one of you will be able to "stop" once your family is all together for the holidays. Stop worrying. Stop running. Stop wrapping. Stop cooking. Stop cleaning. Stop checking your phone. Stop everything and focus on the people in front of you. Because they are truly what make the holidays so blessed!
(We were so focused on enjoying one another today that we didn't even get a photo of the whole family. Maybe next year!)
No comments:
Post a Comment