No internet service this morning before work. :(
My dad came out to see us yesterday. He had been to lunch with a friend and stopped by for a brief visit before heading back home. I’m always amazed by his strength and health. He will be 81 in a few weeks and sometimes moves around better and faster than I do! We talked a little about Christmas and my brothers. That always leads to thoughts of mom and her obvious absence. When she was alive Christmas was a “big deal” and involved lots of preparation and shopping and a crowded house filled with laughter. Not so much anymore. Our family members are scattered to the four corners of the world and the holidays will never again bring everyone together. But I suppose that is true of most families these days. We do what we can, where we are, with the people who can join us.
Gary and I have to be satisfied with phone calls. We share Christmas joys with our children in CA, VT, and TX thanks to AT&T. And I remember many years when we did the same thing with Mom, Gran, and Della. We were the ones off in some other state with our children! Of course now, thanks to digital cameras and the internet, we can also see almost instant photos of the other households. That is so enjoyable! (I suppose if I had the latest equipment we could Skype and see videos, etc. but let’s not dream too big. I’m still in the country with a satellite connection.)
And another difference between our Christmas now and in the past is that we don’t have to “catch up” on the latest family news. Most families stay connected throughout the year via phone, text, email, FB, photos, etc. There isn’t a long gap between “visits”. I remember times past when the Christmas dinner conversations were mostly about what had happened the past summer or school year and photos were passed around that might be six months to a year old. Sometimes it would be so long between visits with my cousins that I would have to review their names in my head, or even be introduced to a new one. That isn’t necessary now, thanks to technology.
I sometimes miss the noise and chaos of having children at home, but one of the great joys of my current situation is that I get to share Christmas with fifteen boys and girls who are super excited! I get to enjoy the “wonder” years, no matter how old my children and grandchildren get. This week we will complete our parent gifts and some ornaments and cards. I’ll get to hear about Santa and reindeer and presents for five more days! By then I will be ready for the peace and quiet of my house! Lol
I hope that as you reflect on the memories of past Christmases that you also appreciate your present celebration, no matter how big or small. Changes can be good.
Have a blessed day!!
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