I hosted my first Christmas when I was pregnant with my daughter, only missed hosting two since then, and she’ll be turning 50 at the end of this month. Some gatherings were bigger than others, but I really can’t remember any year when there was less than 20 guests present at the table; a mix of family, friends and often just people who had nowhere else to go. It was a hustle and bustle preparation, the shopping, the cooking, the decorating, and I loved it all. And the tradition ends here.
My children have decided that, in light of my present circumstances, they will do the honors this season. Yes, they made the decision without my input, and told me point-blank that I am too tired, I already have enough stress with my job, so to just chill and let them take care of it. If I had argued they would have relented, but after feeling the twinge of letting go, I find that I agree more than disagree with the passing of the torch. The first of many changes I expect to see in the year 2020.
They did ask/tell me that I was quite welcome to make the Christmas stew and the stuffed breads and pies that have been an essential part of their Christmas ever since they can remember. They added that it was my choice and, knowing me as they do, correctly guessed that it would lessen the sting of the adjustment.
So…my doggies will still enjoy the smell of some Christmas cooking in the next two weeks, but will not have to be restrained, coaxed with marrow bones, from joining the very energetic and excited little tots racing up and down the hallways on December 25th. I always felt so guilty shutting them away, but their size and willingness to be just as rambunctious as the kiddies who are way smaller than they are was too risky.
Instead the beasts will have a short wait until I arrive home from my son’s place, then we’ll do the usual; brandy with eggnog and quiet reflection in front of a nice, warm fire.
They’ll be chewing, and yep, I’ll be SMILING.
LUV FROM THE BUSH IN QUEBEC
Tales from the Bush in Quebec 