I know this is an old post, but it seems relevant given that Christmas 2016 is coming up quick. Last year I wanted to be more settled and more secure financially by this year. I had just taken a new job and moved far away from my family, but even with a higher income, I haven't been able to become any more financially secure. Cost of living is higher here and there is always something that needs whatever little bit of money I have managed to save up. I guess when you are resolved to have no debt (Which I have no debt, so that is a blessing), it makes saving that much more difficult.
Because one of our number is working both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, (Nurses don't get to take holidays) the extended Ramey clan gathered together early this year.
While of wildly different faiths, political affiliations, and careers, we have three things in common that become very obvious on such an occasion. We're all geeks of one variety or another, we love to debate, and we all love to cook and tend to be quite good at doing so.
That last item makes for some pretty spectacular meals, as people work to bring in a wide variety of complementary dishes, most of which would not be out of place in a 3-4 star restaurant (Though the professionals would make it look prettier than we do, and with less fuss)
Such gatherings are chaotic, noisy, and messy affairs, full of life and joy and love, and I love every moment of it. Which is somewhat perplexing in my case, as I tend to be… uncomfortable at parties with people other than my family.
The evening concluded with all of us crowding in to rewatch the Muppet's Christmas Carol as we do every year. All but my youngest nephew knows every song and line by heart, but it has been a tradition for so long there's no question of not playing that particular film.
Most gifts are being saved for the actual day, but we did open a few to and from my sister who would not be there.
Wherever you are, whoever you are with, and however you choose to spend the holidays, I wish you all peace and joy this season.
Edited: daishain on 24th Dec, 2016 - 4:17am
Christmas is lots of fun but it can also be overwhelming getting everything right. There are so many bases to cover and no matter how much prep you do there is always last minute fixes. Now that its over I can take a little rest *wink*.