Family Coffee Night

Our wedding month is September, so we did not have long that first year before we had to decide how we would handle Holidays and Family. Thankfully, both of our parents are still married, our siblings are still married, and we all like each other. Wanting to spend time together is never an issue, it is just a matter of logistics of hours in a day, especially since we all live within 40 minutes of one another.

We decided from that first Holiday that we would not split the days. We would choose to assign days per family side, and alternate years when the day was not repeatable. Example: Thanksgiving is Thanksgiving and Easter is Easter, and we are not into doing double work for the sake of togetherness. So, every other year we alternate on which side of the family we spend those two holidays. We haven't, and won't, cater or change the rules. I hope to think this works for the family; fair and predictable. We certainly enjoy that aspect.

Regarding the Christmas holiday, I grew up giving gifts on Christmas Eve so that day is with my family, and my husband grew up giving gifts Christmas Morning, so we are with his family on that day. Completely perfect  ~ God had it all laid out for us, easy choice (smile).

The year when we are not together on Thanksgiving, my extended family gathers at one of our houses, or at a local coffee shop. Usually on the Sunday evening after Thanksgiving, and before we all head off to work, school, and responsibilities the next day. It is a very relaxing way to end the long weekend.

Yesterday was no exception. We took over a little corner of the cafe, and spent just short of a few hours together - closing down the store laughing and entertaining ourselves with together-time. It was really fun.

The cousins on both sides of the family are close, even though they do not necessarily see each other "a lot" throughout the year. They just have a special bond that keeps them together ~ never an awkward silence or moments to warm up. They are just "on" the minute they spy each other and run for hugs. Love! Blessed!

I like our traditions - Formal Thanksgiving with one side of the family, informal hang-out time with the other - being us in both places. Very Thankful.