The new look of Christmas 2002
Last Christmas was very different for my family. We were living in a place where we'd lived our whole lives, very comfortable in every way. Socially, spiritually, physically, financially. We spent Christmas with my husband's family, just like we do every year. Someone else provided the stage and we were the players, as usual.
This Christmas we're living in a place that is starting to seem familiar but still very new. Socially, we're still making friends. When the phone rings we jump, then laugh. Spiritually, we've grown a lot individually and found a wonderful new church family. I'd have to say that's our area of the most improvement, because there's nothing to renew your faith like discovering it anew, in a different setting.
Physically, we're celebrating the holiday with our family of five this year. The news doesn't take a holiday, and with Bobby being the new kid on the block, he'll be the only person manning the bureau tomorrow. So we're going out to eat tonight and opening all our presents when we get home. Tomorrow morning, I'll get up early and make a special breakfast before he heads out the door at 7:45. The rest of the day, I think we're going to make a gingerbread house and play with our new toys. This is the first time since my oldest was born 9 1/2 years ago that we haven't been at my in-laws on Christmas morning. But the kids are looking forward to the holiday, and change is good, right?
Financially ... well, let's just say I've made most of our gifts this year. But that's been a lot of fun, and definitely a de-stresser this holiday. I'm hoping the new year brings me a sense of professional fulfillment again, not to mention a little extra income. I won't sacrifice time with my children to accomplish that, though, so it has to be on the right terms.
Changing seasons, new traditions, different settings. It's all good. I feel like I'm stretching, and that's a nice feeling.
Merry Christmas to your family! Love your children and laugh a lot this year.
