Blessings still follow obedience

So, let me tell you how things turned out.

I called Dad after doing some shopping on Sunday morning. He, Eric, Keith and Evan had gone out for breakfast. I started to tell Eunice that we were not going to be there for Christmas and broke down crying before I could finish talking. I couldn't believe I was so upset. She was so kind and sympathized and told me how right Greg was to not want to be separated at Christmas and he should want us all to spend it with his family. Then she said that Rick and Kathy were coming up sooner than expected, would be in that afternoon, and would we like to come to dinner. It was so wonderful. Greg did not want to go knowing it would cause a lot of suffering of his health over the holidays, but was glad for the kids and I to go.

I can't tell you how wonderful it was to just hang out with my nephews. We did not have any deep discussions, but I was exposed to their personalities and interactions. I had a great time and I felt so much better afterwards. I missed them on Christmas and I was sorry to miss the dinner, but I do love Greg more. God blesses those who chose to obey.

On Christmas Eve Greg and I and the kids open all our big gifts to each other. You can read a little about that on the Our Trail blog; but what struck me was how much I enjoy our family. And I was reminded that we are creating the center of our family as I think of my dad being the center of my family with my siblings. I hope that as our kids grow they will desire to be with us as I desire to be with my family. Of course, I hope it will not cause the stress and anxiety that I experienced this Christmas. It is something of which to be sensitive and aware.

I have never been so glad to have Christmas over. Rick and Kathy did not leave right away: they came to the apartment with Dad the day after Christmas to spend a little more time together and to take the kids and I on a little shopping spree to Powell's Books! Wow, was that exciting! Thank you Rick and Kathy!!! And Dad, who desired to join in the giving!!!

Thankfully we have no plans or traditions (that I can think of) for New Years. I keep thinking that next Monday is the beginning of a new schedule, but I have another couple of days to prepare both physically and emotionally. There are so many ways in which I have let my discipline slide. Perhaps I will save that confession for another time.