Not knowing what to really say. I have to say something don't I. Christmas. Some people would a catchy phrase to respond to that word. I thought of one in my head and that is as far as it will go.
Every year now, for the past 3 years, Some things have never changed about Christmas. My sister-in-law's husband messing with the traditions of her family to appease her husband(separated now for 3 1/2 years). Our Chevy Astro Van breaking down and getting fixed for about $500 to $1000 (still cheaper than payments). Playing in the snow with the kids or without.
The family tradition with my wife's family goes like this. For the past 5 years, (yes I have been married that long) My wife and I host a Christmas Eve get-together. Around 3:30, We have arranged the living room to fit 12-13 people. Appetizers, Church service, Supper, desert, White Elephant gifts. The five separate families (My wife's parents, her brother and wife, her brother's wife's parents, Ours, and her sister's.) Appetizers - each family brings one appetizer- we make 3 more. Chairs are out to sit and snack. They go to Church service while we re-arrange the living room to fit 13 people at 2 tables and make it look nice. Floating candles, salad, plates, bread, sparkling juice(My wife's dad's family are alcholics, he loves them but hates alcohol because of his childhood memories, one is: being left in the car while his dad drinks and passes out at the local bar during winter time. ) pork or chicken, chocolate covered bowls for ice cream and raspberries for desert. Every one manages to bring a recycled gift for the White Elephant game. Everyone grabs a gift opens it up and we alternate people to exchange to see who gets stuck with what gift. An individual pizza slice server set has floated around for 5 years now. That and a creepy looking Santa doll.
Now the downside to this lovely affair. My brother-in-law (my wife's sister's husband separated but still there-to put it's complicated is not an overstatement) will waffle whether to come and push my wife's sister to not come to either the Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. That includes the kids (2 nephews-fun but troublemakers-Boys!!) missing out on the Love. I do mean it. My in-laws are the embodiment of Love. They help when they can no strings attached with whatever. Me learning a new thing to fix in my house from (father-in-law). Helping pay for our van bills. Later with that. Christmas morning for My wife's family has happened the same for about 28-29 years. Her parents ask everyone to show up at the butt crack of dawn (6:30-7). Have a great egg bake, caramelized rolls, Flavored coffee, cocoa, cookies, (yeah you got full just reading). Opening the huge socks(hope to add a picture or two) full. These things are 3 feet long and could fit 2 infants or a 7 year old. Exchange gifts and be back home by 9ish. Crazy, fun, crowded, love it. My brother-inlaw thinks his own family needs traditions to supplant these events instead of working around them. Grab the E-Rolodex, file under Bitterness, Resentment, Feelings Hurt.
The Van. It has something go wrong, Alternator, Distributor cap, spark plugs, battery, wiring. Enough said. GRRR. God provides the help when we need it. See File, Love from In-Law parents.
Now with my favorite activity. Playing in the snow. See pictures when they are added. Until then picture in head, Fun, snowball fights, sculptures, forts, sledding. Go to Cold Stone and Order this size, LOVE IT!!! :}
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