I have found the gift I treasure most is that of quality time with
loved ones. Add some yummy food, and the
experience is downright delightful regardless of the weather! I’ve been very blessed to have several family
and friends who have given the gift of their time to Kevin and me this holiday
season.
It’s Gettin’ Real in the Kroger Café
Wednesday evening after
daily Mass at St. Benedict’s, Kevin, Gabriella, Michele, and I went to Kroger
for dinner. We ended up eating there,
then talking for close to three hours.
We discussed a variety of things, much of it involving faith,
discernment, vocations, and using the talents God’s given us. At times our conversation was pretty serious and
rather intense even to observers. “What
is this, Vatican III?!” the man seated at the table next to us asked. “Depends. Did you learn anything? If so, then yes!” my dear husband responded.
Sisters, Sisters
Thursday morning, Theresa
came and got me so we could go out to breakfast, just the two of us, and have some
time to catch up. Since she’s been even
busier than usual this past semester, I only heard from her a couple times, so
it was nice to hear about what life’s been like as she’s been studying,
dancing, rehearsing, working, and having some interesting adventures in and
around her apartment. We made a quick
Target run, so she could get some supplies for the Christmas gifts she planned
to make. (In case you’re wondering, yes,
it’s still hard to believe my baby sister’s 20 years old!)
Tradition Time with the Family
Last Thursday evening, my
mom made her famous chicken fingers, mashed potatoes, crescent rolls, and steamed veggies dinner for our family. She and Theresa had picked out the live Christmas tree, put it in the stand, and strung the lights. The carols were playing. The scent of fresh-baked brownies lingered in the air. Mom, Theresa, Mary, Jordan, Kevin, and I gathered around the dining room table for a delicious meal, then we made our way into the living room to decorate the tree. As has been our tradition for as long as I can remember, we have put the ornaments on first that we’ve made, or those that have special memories or sentiments that go along with them.
Me and the Boys
Friday Kevin, John, our
friend Chris, and I had dinner and some really deep conversation at
Panera. It was one of those evenings
that we could just feel the Holy Spirit at work in and through the people
before us, well aware that God has seen fit to bring us together as part of how
He intends to draw each one of us closer to Him, give us hope for the journey,
and inspiration to persevere.
Spiritual Diva Brunch
Saturday
morning my dear Cursillo sister/spiritual diva from group reunion Christine
invited us over to her house for brunch. All of her Christmas decorations were
up, and the dining room table was set for a festive holiday breakfast. I hadn’t seen Christine, Barb, or Sandy in
far too long. It was so nice to share a
meal and hear about what’s been going on in their lives. Not all group members were able to attend,
but they were all there with us in spirit and have definitely remained in our
hearts and prayers. (We missed you Sharon, Candy, and Sharyn!)
Our Brother from Another Mother
Saturday evening our dear brother John had
us over for homemade chili. We arrived
in time to help sauté the green pepper and onions, stir in the beans, and mix
all the ingredients together in one big pot.
We listened to Christmas music and talked awhile both before and after
partaking in the chili. We bundled up,
and John took us for a ride to see a few of the more elaborate Christmas tree
light displays. One of family has been
decorating their home and yard for the past 37 years! Yes, of course, they’re on the Tacky Lights Tour!
We warmed back up with some hot tea and scrumptious baked goods. 
