This year we celebrated Christmas with family 4 different times in three different states!
December 19th, 2015
We started in Fargo, ND with my Dad’s side of the family. The time we get to spend with family is precious to us. The distance doesn’t help but it sure helps us be intentional with the time given. This year on the Barrus side of the family we drew names, but not to give gifts, but words of encouragement to each other. We shared fun memories and encouraging words. This is truly a great gift. Thoughts that are not often shared but are truly valued! I hope the a new tradition sticks 🙂 Greg was sick that day so he missed the festivities.
December 21st, 2015
Our second Christmas was with Tim, Kaley & Lucas in Hutchinson, MN. We were anxiously awaiting the newest nephew/cousin to come. In the meantime, Lucas and our kids enjoyed playing together. They wore each other out! It brings me great joy to watch the cousins open Christmas gifts together. Especially Uncle Greg’s homemade wood gifts! This year it was a catapult. I’m not sure who enjoyed it more, Lucas, Tim or Greg :).
While we were there Nolan decided to make his entrance into the world on December 23rd. Of course that was the day I got sick along with Rahab. Fun fun. Greg held down the fort and watched all the kids and I cleaned and prayed over their house so no one else would get sick! God was good, Tim’s family never got the stomach flu! Praise God!
December 24th & 25th, 2015
Our third Christmas was hosted at the Wharram’s household in Orono, MN. My extended family was there along with my parents and brother! Christmas for me growing up was always with a house full. This Christmas was just that. Jadon got sick after church but before dinner. Poor guy had to wait until Christmas morning to open his presents. He didn’t seem to mind all the attention was on him and he didn’t have to wait his turn :). We played games, piano, in the snow, and wondered who would get hit next with the flu bug.
December 30th, 2015
After two full days of traveling, see Rahab’s birthday post, we made it home to celebrate our 4th Christmas at Don & Ferol’s in Yelm, WA. Esther got sick the night before, but was feeling up to joining us that morning. Our kids opened more presents with their other cousin. I’m so thankful for the time we have together especially when we celebrate our Lords’ birth. Owen also received his Uncle Greg homemade wood gift, the catapult. It was a day later, and Uncle Brad & Grandpa got hit with the flu we brought home.
We had a great Christmas. Even with the stomach bug that seemed to plague us this Christmas. It truly is all about our Savior. I love that we get to spend time with family celebrating it. Even if we are the ones who brought the sickness this year! Sorry family!