Today my family did the annual extended family Christmas party. We had a good time. We read the Christmas story so we would be reminded of why we are celebrating. Then we had a great meal (least cooked, most enjoyed), after which, we did our game exchange. You know, the kind where you have cards with instructions and gifts get passed around before finally landing? Of course, everyone knows what everyone else wants and the final post-game exchange always occurs!
Our extended family party has changed over the years. Once we were young families with small children. I remember one Christmas Eve at Mom’s when one of my sisters had a brand new baby, and her toddler was up past his bedtime. As she sat on the fireplace hearth cuddling the baby, he wailed at her feet. I snapped by picture of her gazing helplessly at this distressed toddler and we hadn’t even opened our gifts yet.
That toddler now has two kids of his own and lives across the state. My grandsons spread across three states and another sister has a granddaughter in another town—but at least she is on this side of the state!
I remember other Christmases when there were very large family parties – and the traditional turkey with all the trimmings. Or maybe it was a ham since Thanksgiving was just a few weeks ago? Opening gifts took a very long time because there were so many people. Most of those around that tree have gone on to heaven, now. Funny how we always remember during the holidays, isn’t it?
As I talk with friends, I find this is pretty common. The traditional Christmas doesn’t happen as often nowadays. But, as life changes, we change with it. Now we nearly back to the original sibling family. It feels a little weird and strange, yet I find I am so very grateful to have this family with which to celebrate and to love and continue to walk through life together.
God is here. He is also with our families wherever they all are. I am so glad we are loved by a God who is omniscient. He is with us all. He is God with us—Immanuel.
“Behold the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, ‘God with us’” Matthew 1:23.
Great post! Let me guess… I’m that baby! 😉 Wish we could have been there! Maybe we’ll get transferred closer this next year! Love you Auntie!
Yes, Jessica, that was you! Love you, too.