Sometimes I Write

The Christmas party at Sox’s was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced although I joked that it reminded me of Chirstmases growing up with my extended family. It was loud, there was cussing, gifts, lots of food, and several little kids running around. 🙂 There was a mix of gratitude, expectation, and sadness in the air. I definitely felt out of place there, but I’m so glad we went. There were one hundred or so people there, most of whom I’d never met. I found great comfort in the hugs and smiles from the street kids I knew. Some of the people serving food looked more uncomfortable than I felt. My emotions ran high and I had a hard time keeping from crying. I was so sad to see those people who would be taking their gifts back to their squats and tents. I was irritated at the few people who were unappreciative of their gifts (that they had asked for) and were asking others to trade with them. There were also those who didn’t expect anything but a meal and were surprised and grateful for the gift they received. I had a few good conversations and we invited one of our street friends to spend Christmas Day with our family. Benny doesn’t understand why it was such a strange experience for me, so I reminded him that I’m not around downtown as much as he is. His comfort level is higher than mine.

Christmas Day was relaxing. Our friend Nick spent the day with us. Angi is here for two weeks too, so we had a good time chatting over our dinner. Angi and I make a good team when it comes to pumpkin pie. I made my crust and she made the filling. The results were delicious! We quizzed Nick about his life, and Benny teased Angi a lot. Nick is from another country and I love his accent so talking with him is always fun. We just hung out and watched t.v. and went to look at Christmas lights, then took Nick back to his squat. He said it was the first time he had ever celebrated Christmas and that he had a good time. I believe he also said it was “interesting”. 🙂 I told him that I’d take that as a compliment and he smiled.

The day after Christmas we took down our tree and put away everything Christmasy until next year. Petey’s birthday is tomorrow and we want it to be special for him. I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want to say about him as tomorrow’s post is all about Pete. I’ve really enjoyed reading everyone’s posts about their Christmas experiences, and seeing pictures of my friends with their families. I am thankful for the blessings that the holiday season brings. I look forward to the changes coming in the next few days as we begin a new year. God gets all the glory for life, friends, family, and all of the many reasons we have to celebrate. Praise God!

*We finally updated our website and our Christmas letter (Review of 2005) is there along with pictures of our family – especially the kids. Check it out here.