I love to gather the family at the holidays, yet as families grow and change some years are more challenging than others when it comes to getting everyone together.
My mom has always had a good attitude about this which is to recognize that everyone needs to do what's most important to them. She has given us that freedom. Although we don't want to give up on long held traditions and see those we love most.
This year is a particularly challenging year since my closest relatives have new schedules, loved ones, jobs, and responsibilities. That compromises their ability to easily accommodate others with holiday schedules.
We'll make the best of what happens--we'll gather with those available and have, perhaps, a smaller than usual gathering. There will be joy with that intimacy, but we'll certainly miss the others we enjoy celebrating the holidays with.
My mom has always had a good attitude about this which is to recognize that everyone needs to do what's most important to them. She has given us that freedom. Although we don't want to give up on long held traditions and see those we love most.
This year is a particularly challenging year since my closest relatives have new schedules, loved ones, jobs, and responsibilities. That compromises their ability to easily accommodate others with holiday schedules.
We'll make the best of what happens--we'll gather with those available and have, perhaps, a smaller than usual gathering. There will be joy with that intimacy, but we'll certainly miss the others we enjoy celebrating the holidays with.