Yes, I know that Christmas was 2 days ago. But we have an additional tradition in our family. We have a big sit-down dinner with the entire family.
See, our family is a little unusual. First, it's a blended family, my kids and her kids. We started the Christmas dinner before my wife and I got married. We realized that year we may not be together on Christmas day, at least not all of the family. So we make a strong effort to encourage all of the kids to come to this dinner. Sometimes it's a few days or even a couple of weeks before Christmas. Sometimes, it's after Christmas. This year, today worked best.
So far, we've had near 100% perfect attendance. One year, the oldest boy was otherwise occupied in Iraq. While he couldn't be there in person, he did make a video and spoke to each person at the table. I'm not sure if he realized it, but he went perfectly around the table and spoke to each person in perfect order. Maybe we are just that predictable. We tried to petition Pres. Bush to give him leave for our dinner, but unfortunately, that didn't work.
This year, we may have our second ever absentee. I'm still holding out hope.
It's hard for all of us to get together on Christmas day. Four of the five kids are married and have another set of parents to visit. Then there's grandparents and extended family to visit. I'm hoping to see the new movie "Four Christmases" so I can empathize with all that the kids go through.
I'm very thankful that all of our kids make a special effort to attend this extra event.
Merry Christmas! (still)
3 comments:
You & I are very blessed. Our family has grown from just the 7 of us to 13.9 and counting. Yes I said 13.9. We are expecting our 3 grandchild any minute. I'm sure you will read all about it when this blessed event happens. Next year will add 3 more places at the table. 2 parents, 9 adult children, and 5 grandchildren. I can't wait.
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Randy. I hope that your attendance is perfect for next year.
It was fun. A little shaky at points...but isn't that what makes it fun? Well, maybe not in the moment, but those are the things memories are made of. :) I love that y'all make this a priority and encourage us to as well. Love you guys!
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