The problem with being out of town for almost two weeks at Christmas is that it gets hard to write about all of the things that went on. When Becky and Terry said that they were going to my parent's for Christmas this year, we thought it would be fun to go up too and be there. I don't really like a super quiet Christmas. At least on Christmas Eve. I'm so used to the boisterous Boyce family gatherings we had on Christmas Eve when I was growing up. I miss them. Their new baby, Charlie, is absolutely adorable and we were just in love with him already.
On our way we took a detour to Standford to visit Grandpa Jerry. He had just had a liver transplant. We are so grateful for this miracle that can prolong his life. It is amazing what medicine can do these days. He is mostly recovering well and he has been in good spirits. I cry just thinking about what an amazing miracle it has been.
It was a quick visit and we wanted to make it to my parent's in time for the Pebley Family party that we haven't been able to go to for years. It was at my mom's house this year, so all we had to do was show up on time. We left the Bay Area at 2:30 and didn't arrive at my parent's until almost 8. Traffic was terrible. So, after a long and tiring day of driving we made it in time. In time for some food, singing, and the Nativity. It was fun to see some of my cousins that I haven't seen in a while and to see how much their kids have grown. It is sometimes surreal to sit and observe my family doing these same traditions that I did as a little girl. I remember how childhood felt for me and it boggles my mind sometimes to think of my kids going through those same experiences I went through and also different ones.
On Christmas Eve we sang songs to the guitar. My girls played the piano and sang. We laughed, ate Chinese food, and enjoyed being together. We didn't get up too early on Christmas morning, Probably because as soon as we get to my parent's bedtime is always pushed to a far later time. It's hard with family coming and going and Joey and I would rather sit and enjoy the company rather than get kids ready for bed. This year, just like last, the girls asked Santa for 4 things: Something I want, something I need, something I'll wear, and something I'll read. It helped to not have presents too out of control. They also have generous grandparents and their stockings were filled with little surprises. I think the biggest hit for Sammie and Abby were the walkie talkies in their stockings. They opened their "Sister exchange" gifts on Christmas Eve and the Pajama Elf left some new pj's for everyone.
I love this time of year and the excitement and also the reverence that I feel. I've been having a hard time lately dealing with some aspects of my illness that I still have troubles from. Christmas helps me to keep things in perspective and I felt a gentle encouraging to keep going, things will get better. I am so incredibly blessed to have these wonderful people in my life.
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