the glass is not even half full
Today's post is supposed to be about my biggest challenge this year, but I'm not sure what that is yet- being unofficially diagnosed with burn-out? having my dad officially diagnosed with cancer? running a marathon? The jury is still out.
Instead- I'm going to whine a bit because despite being very busy with cleaning and shopping and holiday activities, I am missing all my family that won't be here for Christmas this year.
I know.
I know it means less work for me, but I feel almost lonely when I think that less than half of us will be together this Christmas!
And I know.
I know I will still get to see the most family- Ben and Melissa, David and Kristy, and Angela and Micah will be here to fondue on Christmas night, but it isn't everyone. No offense to those who are here- I am SO glad to have you, but didn't you love being ALL together? Eating good food. Playing games. Talking. Laughing. Crying. And starting it all over again with more good food.
Last year we had EVERYone. All 27 of us. It was tiring and a lot of work, especially when you add a wedding to the mix! And I may not even have loved it all at the time, but I love it now. I love the memories we shared- our family program with some Weird Al and The Grinch on guitar; snowball fights and Tyler losing his lens (and then Soren found it in the spring!); Rock Band; blessing and holding baby Avery; last minute shopping and then wrapping gifts; sharing the Nielsen Christmas Chipmunk; making candy and a movie (I'm still waiting for a copy Micah!); newest addition, Lola; Mom and Dad's generosity with all of us...
And I loved having a full house- full of love and full of laughter.
And I know!
I know.
13 is a pretty full house. We will laugh. We will eat good food. And love travels.
I just wish it didn't have to travel so far this year.
Thinking of each of you who are away from us this Christmas season...
Instead- I'm going to whine a bit because despite being very busy with cleaning and shopping and holiday activities, I am missing all my family that won't be here for Christmas this year.
I know.
I know it means less work for me, but I feel almost lonely when I think that less than half of us will be together this Christmas!
And I know.
I know I will still get to see the most family- Ben and Melissa, David and Kristy, and Angela and Micah will be here to fondue on Christmas night, but it isn't everyone. No offense to those who are here- I am SO glad to have you, but didn't you love being ALL together? Eating good food. Playing games. Talking. Laughing. Crying. And starting it all over again with more good food.
Last year we had EVERYone. All 27 of us. It was tiring and a lot of work, especially when you add a wedding to the mix! And I may not even have loved it all at the time, but I love it now. I love the memories we shared- our family program with some Weird Al and The Grinch on guitar; snowball fights and Tyler losing his lens (and then Soren found it in the spring!); Rock Band; blessing and holding baby Avery; last minute shopping and then wrapping gifts; sharing the Nielsen Christmas Chipmunk; making candy and a movie (I'm still waiting for a copy Micah!); newest addition, Lola; Mom and Dad's generosity with all of us...

And I know!
I know.
13 is a pretty full house. We will laugh. We will eat good food. And love travels.
I just wish it didn't have to travel so far this year.
Thinking of each of you who are away from us this Christmas season...
8 Comments:
I know what you mean because whenever part of our family is missing from any event we definitely feel the void.
*HUGS*
:(
I definitely feel the void. However, I get to fill the void a bit on my trip to Texas - not to rub it in...
I always feel sad about my family being far away. Christmastime is the worst for that. How I wish they lived nearby!
I love that while you were busy and stressed last year, and maybe didn't even like it all the time, you like it now. Great memories.
Jen, you always have a way with words. I am jealous you have 13 to spend the holidays with. Our numbers have dwindled immensely, and with Kent's job, we are homebound. It's just the 6 of us, and it feels lonely! I know what you mean about wanting everyone there! Enjoy the holidays and know that we think of you often! Good backyard/neighborhood memories!
I also know just what you mean; since moving away we've had the "blessing" of creating holiday traditions that don't involve extended family. And while I treasure time with just our five, I really miss time with the family. Someday in my dream world, everyone will live in one town and every day will be like a holiday.
Hey, if you need to get in contact with me, please email (or call).
angie@tripeakproduction.com
THANK YOU SO MUCH! You are such a good friend. I'm glad the spirit prompted me to call you. I'm very thankful to have you in my life.
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