I remember as a child the long procession up to Christmas. I had a running list taped to the hallway wall with my list of things I wanted. Everytime I saw a commercial on TV I'd write down that item advertised. Back then, of course, it was all about me and the stuff I wanted. Now, this procession is completely different!
Each Christmas is different from year to year because of the company enjoyed. For many years, as a mom, I enjoyed selecting the perfect present for each child and watching them open their packages on Christmas morning. Planning, shopping and cooking for our feast took many hours and consumed in minutes! I even loved the mess on Christmas day and days following where the house had bits of wrapping paper and ribbon strewn about while everyone spent time with their new gifts while lounging around for a days.
This year I feel like a kid, again. The anticipation of seeing all my kids and grandkids all together for Thanksgiving has me beaming inside and out! My mind is a bit scatterbrained as I try to pack my own suitcase. I continually think of another little gift or present that I should pack for my grandkids. I've already packed two boxes, large ones at that, full of toys and presents that I want the kids to have. To think that the Legos that my kids spent hours playing with on the floor will now be enjoyed by the grandkids is mind boggling. How did my kids grow up so fast? Whose kids are they anyway? I'm not old, but they are older!!!
I have rented a house on the Oregon coast that sleeps 14! We're all arriving tomorrow and will be together for a whole week. I'm sure it will be cool and rainy so that leaves us inside the house - together!!! There's nothing better than no where to go, pajamas all day and a full pantry.
My granddaughter Ellie's Mia once said, "Whatever Ellie wants, Ellie gets." I fear I have that thought for all 6 of my grandchildren! I can't wait to take them shopping and say, "Pick anything you want!"
Cookies for breakfast? No problem. Daddy's going to discipline you? Not on my watch!!! Not tired for bed yet? "Let's read another book!" This week Grandmum rules!
What a beautiful contrast to the importance of stuff as to the importance of family. There is nothing better than the pleasure of cooking for a crowd, sitting around the dining room table for hours, reading storybooks at bedtime, waking up to some little eyes who's wants to play. I am so ready! Making memories that last a lifetime is priceless.
Thanksgiving this year will remind me, again, how thankful I am for the truly special blessings in my life and the opportunity to enjoy them all.
