Getting together with family over the Christmas holiday has been a long standing tradition for us. As a child my folks frequently made the trip to ND to visit the grandparents. Connie and I would commute at least every other year to celebrate Christmas with our parents. Now the tradition continues with our children traveling to grandma’s house to be with us. Our house was filled with the smells of holiday baking for weeks prior to Christmas. The tree was cut from the forest and lights and decorations were everywhere. We eagerly awaited the arrival of the grandkids. It was sad that we were going to miss our daughter Angela’s family, (She was unable to travel due to her pregnancy). But we will celebrate the arrival of another grandchild the first part of January. 

Cody’s family arrived first managing to catch a direct flight into kalispell at the last minute, and Steve’s family along with Connie’s folks arrived the next day. 7 pairs of little feet running around with Christmas excitement. Wow, what a joy it was. Connie went all out with trays of goodies and a hot chocolate bar for the kids. We did celebrate early because Cody’s had to depart on the 24th to head back for work, but that just made for another big Christmas dinner for those remaining on the 25th. The kids got to enjoy a ski day at whitefish mtn., lots of cousin play time, and as much horse time as was possible. 

Then, it was over. BOOM everybody is gone. So much preparation and planning for this joyous time and now the house is empty. As Connie and I sat drinking coffee this morning, we were discussing how lucky and fortunate we are. In a world where the traditional family unit seems to struggle, ours is still close nit, loving, and sharing. We have been very blessed.

We had lots of tears when it came time to leave. Always special times when they get to go to grandma’s house.