Planning

Is it this difficult for any other families to plan for Thanksgiving and Christmas?!

Frank and I have always lived far away from family. When we first married we were ten hours from mine and six from his. Yes, this was tough but it was part of God's plan forcing he and I to become a family of our own. (That's why we are so careful to give Joy and John space; tightrope walking for sure. Smile.)

Holidays then were pretty simple. Thanksgiving with the Hawleys, Christmas with the Burkes. Next year, switch. When my sister married, her family set up the same pattern so we were always able to be together for at least one of the two.

Now? Not so simple!

Frank and I have added relatives in New York (the Schrecks.) All of our children now have their own job schedules that must be considered. Vonnie and Chris' children are growing up. Travel isn't as easy as it used to be when you we just threw kids in the back of the car, gave them snacks, a new coloring book, their pillow and blanket, and the promise that when they woke up we'd be with Mema and Papaw!

While Frank and I and the girls traveled as evangelists, we tried to collect traditions/ideas that helped other families navigate the difficult waters of "Long Distance Family-ing".

I'd love to hear your ideas and solutions on this topic! I fully believe that there is wisdom in a multitude of counselors! Smile.

Also, a big thank you to each of you who have so graciously commented on facebook or here concerning my recent posts about Mom. "Joy shared is multiplied. Sorrow shared is divided." Totally true!