Can We Talk 2

Christmas Plans Altered

         I hadn't wanted to entertain for Christmas, but some family members invited themselves and told me what time they would be here. So I planned a meal and adjusted the furniture to accommodate a crowd around the tree. Then on Christmas Eve, 24 hours before they were due, they told me they had other plans and I was invited, too.

         I was disappointed. I had spent a lot on groceries, a menu was all planned, napkins folded, shrimp was thawing, etc. Now the rug was whipped out from under me. I wasn't sure the other relative meant for me to be included in the new plans. But I went along. My brother and his small family were thrown by the last minute invite as well.

         I felt like we were intruding on the host relative's in-laws, although we are all acquainted. However, it turned out to be more fun than anything I had planned. There were games and prizes for the kids. We ended up outside in the cold because there were so many kids and friends late in the afternoon, and they were very physical in their competitions. It was more memorable for the kids than any sit-down dinner and gift exchange would have been.

         I'm not a serendipitous person. I do have food that will probably be tossed out (the ham will last if stored properly). But the spur of the moment venture was new and a little exciting, something new to do o future occasions. Sometimes throwing in a monkey wrench is a good idea. Besides the first Christmas was anything but routine. Why not shake things up a little bit? The value of family, laughter, and fun outweighed well laid plans.