Christmas In Florida

This year was a very different Christmas for me, I honestly think it was the first time in my life I ever went out of town for the holiday. I have to say, we had a fantastic Christmas in Florida this year. It was definitely a warm place to be for the end of December and I was pretty much guaranteed not to have a White Christmas this year! I'm really sorry we weren't able to stay longer and visit, but obligations at home just wouldn't permit it.

There were about 15 family members at the house and let me tell you, it has been a long time since I laughed that hard or much in two days with a room full of adults. The oldest person there was my husbands grandmother and at eighty years old... she is a hoot, her first comment when she walked into the house.... umm, I can't repeat because of the chillllllldren that might be reading this! But take my word for it, it sure was funny! The youngest person there was only six and she was quite entertaining as well.

Let me just say.... I think they were all having some sort of bodily noise making contests through out our visit, I think only in the "large" family does your ability to pass gas and/or burp out loud and admit it make you a true member of the family!

I was able to meet my husband Aunt Nancy for the first time and she was funny to be around too. I also got to meet my brother in laws soon to be wife and her family and I have to tell you they too chose to play in all the reindeer games, I consider myself family.... I just haven't had the courage to admit anything, well not yet anyway! Who knows, by this time next year they may have rubbed off on me.... hmmm, on second thought someone has to remain a rebel on the subject right? I pick me!

As everyone knows, I love to cook for my family and I had the pleasure of making dinner on Christmas Eve for us all. It truly made me feel good and I'm glad I was given the opportunity to do it. Thanks!

On the serious side of this trip, I found out a few things about my parents in law that I kind of thought I knew, but now I know. They are awesome, I heard stories that really make you love them more than you thought you did or could for that matter. I have never in my life before knew anyone that would give their decorated Christmas tree and food to a little boy who thought that Santa wasn't real because he wasn't going to be able to come to his house that year.

I am amazed, with six young children of there own to take care of at Christmas (which I can't even begin to imagine what expense that could be) and yet they gave the gift of Santa to a child that wasn't even their own. What a sacrifice, I am very very proud to be able to call myself a part of your family (minus the burping and stuff *she says laughing*) and I want to acknowledge your generosity to others too. I want everyone to know, I love you and I love what your family stands for... One for all and all for One! The cheese may get cut, but it doesn't stand alone when your are a part of the "large" family!!!

I'm one lucky girl.