Merry Christmas

I can't recall the last time we went to Gigi and Papa's on Christmas day? Schedules were more chaotic than normal this year and that's just the way it worked out. I'm not complaining. Even Papa was confused. For at least the last 6 years they have came to Mt. Zion for Christmas Day lunch.

This year was certainly different. Not bad, just different. It was the first time in a long time that my sister wasn't home. You wouldn't think that missing 2 kids would make much of a difference but it was certainly a little more quiet.

Gigi prepared a wonderful meal for us. We had lasagna and there was certainly more than enough for us all to.indulge. the spread of desserts and treats was definitely making the kids happy. Before we even began to think about opening gifts Leah got a special surprise from Papa. Her very own violin. At first he tricked her into thinking he was going to learn to play. She caught on soon enough and is very excited. I love that they bond over music.

My mom never goes overboard with gifts. It always feel right that the most important part of our family Christmas is the people around the tree...not the gifts under it. However I will say this year I was especially thankful for Jackson and his enthusiasm. And for the fact that Hattie wasn't admitted to the hospital, so she was there...tired, but there. And especially for Gigi. This Christmas could have looked very different for our family. But we know that our Lord and Savior holds us in his hands, that he protects us and has a plan for good. By his grace Gigi and Jackson are both doing better than ever.

By the end of the day we were all helping Gigi put her Christmas decorations away. Many hands make for light work and it took us no time at all. It was kind of strange to be tearing down Christmas ON Christmas, but Gigi and Papa had plans to get to Arizona. I know Laura's family is anxious for their arrival, and I can't help but think all that sun and warm weather will just further Gigi's progress.

So while this Christmas was different it was exactly what we needed. A chance to be together, to reflect on the blessings that we've been provided. One last chance to enjoy one another's company in 2019 and end it on a good note. Trusting in his promises and believing that 2020 will bring us much joy and happiness. And hoping it will provide so many more goofy selfies of these kids!!!