Well, 2 Christmas's down and one to go although it is the largest - my side of the family. Yesterday I made lunch at MIL's (cappelletti followed by ham, au gratins, corn pudding, and green beans with almonds). We then all went to the hospital to visit FIL and brought him some cappelletti. We then opened gifts then had lasagna for dinner. We all left then and BIL took MIL to church while our family came home and went to the 7:30 service at our church. I pretty much went straight to bed after church and slept straight through mid morning. Hubs and I watched the Disney Christmas Parade in bed then got up and got things ready for our Christmas this evening with the kids. I made a standing rib roast, mashed taters and gravy, broccoli with cheese sauce, and of course, Christmas cookies.
As I look back over the past week of preparations, I told my husband to commit me if I ever again schedule a surgery before the holidays. It was way too stressful added to an already stressful time, even working part time.
I leave you with a beautiful message from one of my favorite websites: http://greatday.com/
Life is best when it is shared. At no time is that more evident than on Christmas day.
All the various customs and traditions of the season serve to bring people together in a spirit of joy and celebration. It's a powerful reminder of how good it can feel to connect with others in a genuine, personal and heartfelt way.
Though we have many differences, we also have much in common. Though there is great value in our diversity, that value exists because we are able to connect with each other in ways that are positive and fulfilling.
Even the most accomplished, self-sufficient, independent people have an inherent desire to share life's experience with others. Though there is much we can accomplish as individuals, there is far, far more that we can experience by connecting and cooperating with each other.
This is a special, beautiful day. It is made even more beautiful by the opportunity to share with others.
On this day, and every day, live the joy and share the joy. Celebrate the connections that give life so much meaning and richness.
-- Ralph Marston
