Christmas 2018 will go down in the books as a different one. Thankfully there was no emergency appendectomy or a death in the family or a violent assault and robbery. Nothing earth-shattering or alarming.
Just different.
Different because of the all the changes 2018 brought our way with two marrying and moving away. And change isn’t always easy.
But even though it was different, I’m grateful for the time God did give us with those we were able to be with. And technology is wonderful in bridging the gap of hundreds of miles and making ones feel closer than they really are.
One particular highlight for me was joining the Turner family for their Christmas and watching all the children both give and receive from one another. As I sat on the sidelines and watched it all unfold, it was both amusing and encouraging to see the personalities and characteristics of each person be expressed in a unique setting that brought much joy and laughter. So this post is written from that perspective in an effort to capture for memories’ sake the varying dynamics of each child that created a fun and memorable holiday celebration.
The oldest in the Turner clan, Essie functioned as the “gift distributer” so that all the precious bundles under the Christmas tree were given to the appropriate recipient in an orderly rotation. It truly was quite the scene with nine eager children excitedly opening their treasures. It was good to have someone provide a little order and direction. Essie is gifted in leading “the pack” with decisiveness!
Benjamin
What do you do with someone who tries to avoid the camera? Benjamin lovingly gave me a challenge that turned into a fun game between the two of us. Even with his back turned to all the action, I still managed to capture his excitement and pleasure – all the while dodging wrapping paper balls being playfully thrown at me. We’ll see if next year is any easier…
Sarah
She’s grown up with the nickname “Sweet Sarah”. Helpful and sensitive with a tender heart towards the Lord. She sticks close to Benjamin (even when he wants to stay in a corner), and the two make a dynamic duo.
Hannah
Hannah snuggled up close to me while opening her gifts. She has a unique way of making one feel loved and accepted. She was especially excited about her white horse.
Grace
Grace is gifted with a sharp mind and expresses herself in ways that are beyond her years. As we were setting the table for dinner that afternoon, Grace took some stationary that Sarah had made for her and wrote notes to me, Grandpa, and Grandma that she left on our plates to find. Mine landed in my gratefulness journal to keep forever.
Samuel
Being the dramatic little man that he is, it was quite entertaining to see Sam’s exuberance in opening his gifts. I couldn’t get over the sheer delight written all over his face the entire time. And he was also one of the two who gave me a huge hug in appreciation for all the Christmas treats I baked and served that week. That affectionate squeeze will last me all year.
Katie
Little Katie quietly opened her gifts with great carefulness. So dainty and gentle with the sweetest smile. You just want to look into those precious blue eyes and hug her all the time. But you have to be quick before she scurries away!
James
Christmastime can be a little challenging for a 16-month-old when the desire to have what everyone else is enjoying takes over. J Thankfully the toys he received early on brought a welcomed distraction. I’m sure next year will be even better!
Isaiah
Baby Isaiah “opened” his gifts from the safe haven of his mommy. There were many eager hands to help him enjoy what he received. One has no trouble getting smiles from the little man. He’s full of them and gladly shares them with anyone who will stop and take the time to talk and play with him.
Rachael & Eric and baby Bessie arrived at our door later that night. The cousins were delighted to finally meet each other, and Bessie didn’t lack for love or attention the entire week.
We had the whole crew at our place on Wednesday night for dinner. It was a packed house, but oh, the memories made! I hope there will be many more of these gatherings in the future.
So yes, Christmas 2018 was different, but it was a good different. As a new year is now upon us, I am more than confident that the God who carried me in 2018 and shepherded my soul through its changes is the same God who is with me now as I enter the year 2019. My prayer is that if I’m given the opportunity to reflect on 2019, I’ll see more change that reflects a greater understanding of who God is and a deeper love for those He has placed in my life.
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