This year marked my third Christmas holiday with my beautiful american family. My presence was demanded more than requested this year, but there was no need; I have come to think of these people as my own.
Christmas Eve kicked off with preparations in the kitchen...
The kids decorated cookies for Santa...
...and then there was the traditional family game time on Jackbox Games, and a new venture called That's You! Though we usually include the family from out of state, we were fortunate enough this year to have many of them in house with us, and to be able to Skype with Michael, currently stationed overseas with the US Airforce.
Taking the time to learn the plays before logging in to join...
...and away we go. Family time is fun time with this crowd, and there is never a dull moment!
Then.... bedtime!
Six kids, age 1 to 11, hunkered down for a sleepover on the most magical night of the year. They could barely contain themselves, and neither could we!
Our night consisted of patiently waiting to make sure all six littles were asleep before laying out presents and piecing together a massive telescope to be left by Santa.
It was far into the night before the adults got to bed, but not too far in the morning before the children were chomping at the bit.
Here we go again!
But presents were only the beginning of the day.
Forty-two people were expected to arrive for dinner.
And arrive, they did!
Presents from Grandma,
time with friends,
and games for kids of all ages.
There are days when I question my constant travels, and my inability to stay in one place for any length of time. Then there are days like this, when I find myself exactly where it is that makes me want to stay still, surrounded by people who let me feel comfortable and safe. It's those days there is not enough distance in the all of the world to keep me away from them, or that feeling of being Home for the Holidays.
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| family jammies photo by Ashle <3 |
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