... with hope for 2011. It starts with a bang. My father-in-law has been through his triple bypass and is more and more himself daily. He should be discharged around New Year's so we'll all be taking shifts helping out.
The silver lining, in addition to him being alright and back to himself, is that going to the edge of mortality really does put things in perspective. Family is tight - even in-laws. All differences are put aside and the importance of time spent with each other is renewed. We help, in any way we can offer and no tally is kept. Giving is more important than receiving as we have so much more than we need. We are blessed this Christmas.
We ended up dividing and conquering over Christmas. It had to be done as our families are 7 hours apart and we needed to be with both. Having the traditional Christmas merriment helped me and the kids celebrate despite all the challenges at home. I had a great time with my sister, brother, parents and cousins. It was with the comfort and joy it has been for years and we loved it. We celebrated more when we got home and had fun again.
The next year also begins with a big celebration for my parents and their 50th wedding anniversary. Wow, 50 years! They are an inspiration and it is wonderful to celebrate these milestones with such a joyful occasion.
I'm glad things are getting a bit better for you. And that everyone seems to be making an effort to get along. Makes things easier, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteThe Governor General gives out anniversary messages for couples who have been married for 50 years...the Queen doesn't think it's a big deal until couples have been married for SIXTY years. Anyway, I think fifty is just incredible. Happy Anniversary to your parents (a bit early)!
Yeah. Fifty is a lot. And yes, we were pretty happy we moved things around to be sure my husband's grandparents could be here for Christmas day when Grandpa ended up in the hospital on Boxing Day. And my niece refused to go on the cruise in January unless her cousins came too, so even the kids are getting that family is the really important thing.
ReplyDeletegreat news about your father in law. unfortunately family didn't seem to be a priority for my sister this year. we seem to be at an impass, and i am being pig headed. i really should be the bigger person, shouldn't i? happy new year to you and your fam. looks like 2011 will be starting off well.
ReplyDelete