My 65th Christmas - December 25, 2008

12/25/2008

Time: 11:22 AM

Here we are at Jackie’s and Ken’s.  The Nancy and I were awakened by the boys running through the house at just about 5 am.  Loved it! 

The Nancy and I groggily tore ourselves from beneath the covers, stopped by the bathroom (one at a time), and hurriedly dressed ourselves somewhat for the reason we came.

As I passed by Jessica’s room on my way from the bathroom I noticed her with cell phone in hand sending a text message to one of her friends.  I got a kick out of that, mainly because I have never done it, nor do I ever care to do it.  But for our grandchildren it is a way of life, a sign of the times.

By the time we got downstairs to the family room the four kids has secured their places on the couch waiting to begin the gift opening process.  I should add eagerly to that.

Their mother made them wait for the grandparents to sit down and it was driving the kids crazy, especially since The Nancy and I needed coffee first and they wanted to get started.  As soon as we were situated the melee began. 

Wrapping paper was flying every where.  These kids get so much and have so much, there is little thrill in opening gifts.  I remember when I was a kid we took turns opening presents.  My brothers and sisters wanted to make Christmas morning last as long as we could, and we didn’t get but a few presents to open.  These guys opened present after present and hardly looked at what they got before extending their hands for another.

Gifts for kids these days hover around the technical side – lots of electronics like cell phones, iPods, laptops and stuff like that.  No bikes, no clothing or at least very little of it, no footballs, just more up to date gadgets, new and improved.  In a way it was sad, and in another way I loved watching them.  These are special kids and I love them to pieces.

I am a very lucky man.  I have an awesome family, and this is the best Christmas, ever!

And that is all I have to say about that…