Over time, we’re all guaranteed the reality of change surrounding our family traditions. Littles become tweens, who become teens, who then morph into adults. Then college schedules, significant others, and logistics in general will alter the dynamics of our traditions. Sometimes not all our kids will be able to partake, or other times our immediate family will extend to include girlfriends, boyfriends, and even spouses. Welcoming new people into the mix has been one of my greatest joys over the years.
Our traditions may take on a new look and feel, but the more we focus on what is rather than what was when it comes to our cherished customs, the more we appreciate the blessing of memory making for exactly what it is at any point in time.
This year, only three of us took part in our annual tradition of cutting down the Christmas tree. Our oldest son lives and works out of town and couldn’t make it home and our youngest was busy at college getting ready for finals week. But our 23-year-old middle son joined my husband and I and we enjoyed every bit of our time together. This year, Kyle took the honor of enacting the final strokes of the saw to bring the tree to its resting place. Because he’s a strong young man, he also dragged the tree up to the front of the farm to spare my hubby’s aching shoulders. Another perk of big kids picking up the slack as part of our getting oldness.
I did miss having our other two kids around this year. Every Momma wishes to have all her offspring in tow no matter what is going on. So, I included them in the mix by texting them live photo updates. The miracle of technology.
At the end of the day, as Mommas we cherish any opportunities to spend with our grown-up kiddos. Even five minutes is a gift. Sharing love, even if only by heartstrings from a distance, is a tradition that stands the test of time. Love knows no bounds.
Merry Christmas!
