Played more on Christmas mornings

We did our traditional Christmas Eve Service and Chinese Food excursion.  This year we went to a church in Philly.  The service was called "Nine lesson and nine carols".  They shared scripture, which was based on Christ’s birth, and after each passage we either sang a Christmas Carol or the choir sang.  It ended with candle lighting and singing Joy to the World.  It was a nice way to set the tone for Christmas Day. 

Afterwards, we went to a China Town.  We enjoyed a few Chinese dishes.  It is interesting to see the way the Lord protects us in the little things in life.  While most of the family began eating their wonton soup, James asked, "Is there shrimp in here because I just tasted something I've never had before".  Well, then we realized the soup had shrimp wontons.  Considering he was diagnosed with having a severe seafood allergy, we became concerned.  However, God is good -- nothing happened.  James' face book post says "I'm either no longer allergic to shrimp or I've become immortal". 

Having young adult children is interesting on Christmas Day.  It's been a blessing having them all home.  None of them woke up until after noon.  Jim and I reminisced on when the kids were little.  Each Christmas morning they would wake up early and jump on our bed to wake us.  The last several years, we are the one’s doing the waking.  After the presents were opened and they went downstairs to play their video game; I could not help but weep.  I miss the times when they would open their toys and play on the floor.  Try on their clothes – one outfit at a time.  Ask me to play this game or play with the dolls, cars, legos, etc. 

The years have gone by so quickly.  Looking back, if I were to do it all over again – I would have played more on Christmas mornings with my kids.  Sigh.