Presents or Presence?

Christmas this year brings something very different for our family. You see, there is a 20-year time span between the youngest and the eldest sibling - there are 7 of us. By the time my little sister Janine was born, El had moved out of the family home to start a family of her own. We've all gone our own ways, making lives for ourselves in different states, as far away as Hawaii. Never, in the history of our family have we all been together under the same roof for Christmas - can you imagine that?

So, last winter my big brother threw an idea out there: "Hey, why don't you all (ya'll) come to Atlanta next Christmas?" He now admits that he never really believed any of us would take him up on the idea. Whereas, I don't believe that any of us even hesitated! So here we are, bringing lots of business to the airlines as 40 or more, including grandchildren and their children, prepare to hop on a holiday flight to sunny Atlanta. I'm so excited!

Since we've decided to all participate in a fun holiday grab bag, there's not much shopping to do. Now that feels odd. My kids received plane tickets this year and another very special gift; the opportunity to spend the holidays with cousins, aunts, and uncles from various parts of the world. What's really cool is that my Mom is a vibrant, healthy, 87-year-old and this is most likely the Christmas gift of a lifetime for her. I can't wait to see her residing over one of the most festive holiday meals ever – and she’s not preparing it.

So, while I'm kind of missing the excitement of gift giving and holiday shopping, I know that our presence at this family reunion is the greatest gift any of us could possibly give or receive. Watching my girls, my Mom, nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters, all take delight in this time together promises to be the most precious experience. You can't put a bow on this, but I'm certain that the surprises will be many!

What is the greatest gift you've prepared this year? How do you think outside of the box when you're gift giving? Remember, the gift of time has limitless value and brings the greatest joy!

Happy Holidays!