Christmas this year looks like it will be a bit different than usual at my house. I’ve written in this space before about my [now adult] children. About their growing up years, their college years, and about their lives as adults. I’ve mentioned before that when the kids were small, I envisioned them growing up and settling in this area, or at least living somewhere a relatively short car ride away. However, that’s not what happened.My oldest lives in Florida; my middle kid is in Tennessee; and my youngest is in Ohio. They’re all, thank goodness, happy, healthy, and gainfully employed in jobs that they love. They’re also all far enough away that it requires a flight to get to them, unless I’m willing to drive somewhere between 9 and 20 hours (which I’m not).I am very fortunate that I have a 20 year old stepson, Matt, who lives with me and my husband, and who I absolutely adore... but I see the writing on the wall, and expect that he won’t be with us much past his college graduation.However... this year, it looks like none of my three kids will make it home for the holidays, although Matt and his girlfriend Faith will be with us. Although it’s been quite some time since all three of my children have come home for Christmas, I have always had at least one or two of them in New Jersey.Caity, my oldest, works for Disney as a member of a team working behind the scenes to answer guest relations issues for cast members stationed in the theme parks. She’ll be working on Christmas day, helping to keep things running smoothly for Disney guests.My middle kid, Kylie, will not be working, but her dad and stepmom will be visiting her in the Nashville area, so she’ll be staying put.My youngest, TJ, had sinus surgery on Monday, and has been advised against flying or driving, so unless he heals much faster than expected, he’ll be at his house in Ohio on Christmas, most likely curled up on the couch playing video games.Without the three oldest kids home, it’s time for my husband, my stepson, and myself to create some new traditions.The first new tradition was started this past weekend, when Matt and Faith hosted a dinner party for their college friends. 11 young people gathered at my house, for a bountiful dinner cooked and ...
