We had Christmas on Saturday.
I realize that Saturday was but the 12th of December. Still, we had Christmas.
We sometimes have Christmas on a day other than the real thing. Because three of our children will be elsewhere come the 25th.
At their dads. They’ll be at their dads.
So we pick a day and we call it Christmas. And it’s not ideal, I know. But it works for us. Because it has to. Every other year.
We had cinnamon rolls. Egg casserole.
We opened gifts. Stockings.
We spent the day playing: Scrabble, indoor bowling, Leapster.
It was a good day.
A family day.
A great day.
Albeit early.
Sunday was good too.
Church. And then girls day out. Torri and Kennedy and I hit the mall for a movie. New Moon. Before this movie I can’t say that I’ve ever sat in a theater knowing the movie was about to end, but wishing it wouldn’t. I did that today.
And then they hit a couple of stores, to make good use of those gift cards.
It’s weird because it seemed to me like all of the Christmas decor was expired. But it wasn’t. Because the rest of the world is still looking forward to Christmas day.
Kind of like when the mail lady brought a package to the door yesterday (on our Christmas) and for a moment I was shocked that she was at work.
Oh yeah. Christmas isn’t here yet.
You’ll have to keep reminding me; I have Christmas events yet to come.
Jeff’s company Christmas party this week.
Baking.
And then the real thing.
These “off” Christmas years do have a silver lining in that by the time the real Christmas rolls around we’ve gotten all of the less important stuff out of the way and we can focus fully on the the one true king. The real reason for the season.
For that I am thankful.
The real Christmas will be quiet around here. Joyful. Reflective.
Our focus will be where it belongs.
And that–I believe–is a gift in itself.
I hope yours is just as merry.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds like a wonderful weekend! Merry Christmas!
No matter when you celebrate it, it’s Christmas for you. And oh my gosh I’m distracted because I see you’re going to be at Blissdom, Darcie? Are you going to be at Blissdom? SO AM I.
Steph
This is lovely and so very true, but now I’m distracted because I’m jealous that you’ll be at Blissdom with Steph, and oh, I’m sending a hug with Steph!
I can definitely see how that can throw you off. That is a neat idea though, to make the most of what you have. Merry Christmas!
It is so beautiful that you do this… my niece has a different dad than my sister’s current husband and on the off christmas years, she sort of just get skipped. It breaks my heart…
I’m so glad you can focus on Christ more through this time, but I’m also sorry that you won’t be able to spend the day with the WHOLE family. I can see how that could break a momma’s heart. Will you, Jeff, and Jayce be coming to the early Christmas Eve service for some “second Christmas” fun?
My stepmom always talked about doing this when we 5 kids are all married so that she could have us all together on that day and didn’t have to stress us out with coordinating with in-laws. I think it’s a wonderful idea, no matter the reason. Love to you and yours.
Merry Christmas!
Love that you keep it so real here. :)
I have always wanted to celebrate the holidays (even Easter,Valentines Day) like a week AFTER the real day. Can you imagine the sales you’d get, but everyone thinks I’m crazy.
You’re kids are lucky to have a Mom that makes this time of year and each family time special and not stressful!!
So you liked New Moon, huh? I have yet to see it, but I have read all four books.
I’d like to read your official review of the movie. Wanna share it? :)
How I know how you feel. We have Hunter either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, so we are always switching things around. This year we have him for both (SHOCKING) so it will be fun.