Two months ago we planned our family “Christmas” celebration for January 9. All of my siblings and their families would be in town—even my sister and her family on furlough from the mission field. We hadn’t all been under one roof for over two years. And my uncle was in town as well. We hadn’t seen him for almost 5 years!
The kids were excited to exchange presents with their cousins, each having drawn a name to buy for in early December. We all looked forward to the food and the fellowship and yes, even the noise of 13 kids and all the adults trying to talk at one time. But in all our preparations we never imagined a white “Christmas.” But that’s what we got. The cold rain we woke up to turned to snow just about the time we were all headed to Mom and Dad’s house. It was beautiful to watch, fun for the kids to play in, and generally added to the festive mood of the gathering. Quite an unexpected joy!
Have you had an unexpected take-your-breath-away moment catch you by surprise lately? I’d love to hear about it!
What a great looking family! So glad you got your White Christmas. I always hope we don't since we're usually traveling.
Take your breath away moment this year: Some of us went to visit my mother-in-law who has Alzheimer's and lives in the nursing home. My 3 y.o. granddaughter crawled into her lap, and then, when prompted, sang her entire repertoire of songs, complete with actions and a few dance moves. My m-i-l's eyes sparkled liked sapphires. She didn't know any of us by name, but I think she felt joy in that moment.
What an amazing moment, Carla. It brought tears to my eyes just imagining it!
And yes, we are usually traveling, too, and hope for no snow. In fact it was just last Christmas that snow turned our 5 hour travel day into a 35 hour odyssey home! So glad on Sunday we were less than a mile from our house.