Christmas Joy

Grammi and Grampa’s family Christmas gathering is in the books! Our children and grandchildren came this past weekend for a joyful celebration. I know…it’s not quite Christmas yet, but it was necessary to celebrate a little early. It is an off year for us, which means our children will spend Christmas with their spouse’s families this year. Most of them are traveling out of state.

We have a large growing family that enjoys spending time together celebrating Christmas. The love and joy shared during this time brings us all closer together. Through the years we have carried on with old family traditions. We have also added new ones tailoring our celebration to our family. The celebration would start with dinner on Christmas Eve. Afterward, everyone would put on their Christmas pajamas and stay the night. It was like a big family slumber party. In the morning we would have a huge breakfast feast before opening gifts which often went on until mid-afternoon. Because our family has grown, those traditions are changing. They are evolving.

Last year our children collectively expressed a desire to do away with the gift exchange. They became bored with it. Instead, they suggested “Reindeer Games”. Each couple would bring a game to play and a gift. The winner of the game would receive the gift. It was a big hit and everyone loved it. It got intense at times, but it always ended with laughter. I make no apologies for raising a competitive brood.

This year’s Reindeer Games were even better than last. We had so much fun. The game format ensured everyone won a gift. There is no better sound than that of laughter and our home was filled with much love and joy. For Grammi and I, that is what Christmas is all about — sharing the love and joy brought forth by the birth of Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Of course there was still a little gift giving. Grammi and I give a gift to each one of them. The young grand daughters are the ones that benefit the most though. They are certainly loved and showered with gifts. Passing out the stockings is always a good time too. Small gifts that fit in a stocking are discreetly hidden inside by all.

This is how our family celebrated Christmas this year. Our wish is for one and all to experience the joy of Christmas too. We pray for peace and goodwill. Have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Until next time — Happy days, safe travel and God bless.