Way back when Grace and Zak (and later Dev and Lucy) were the only grandchildren, we celebrated birthdays on or around their birth dates. It evolved into maybe 3 - 4 parties a year, celebrating all the birthdays near that party date. Now, we have one large party every year for ALL the grandchildren's birthdays. Its pretty much Christmas for them. This has become our tradition since Emily moved out of Michigan with her family. This way, we can enjoy seeing everyone while she is home, and they don't miss the celebrations either.
As the oldest kids get older (16 this year for Grace and Zak!) we anticipate a time when we might not do this anymore. This year was the start of it - Dillon was not here. He will not be back with us on this earthly plane, to celebrate another year together. Our peace is that we WILL see him again. One day, we will all be able to celebrate at the Throne. This year, we were blessed to add Vivian, celebrating her very first birthday with us, and Erica, who joined us in January when she came to live with Andy and Lisa. So, it continues - circle of life kind of thing.
Which is why comparing our party-in-the-summer to Christmas is so appropriate. The gift of God's Son being born to save us all is WHY we can celebrate anything. Christmas is a birthday too. And remembering, even when we don't feel like celebrating, is important. Good times, bad times, new years, milestone birthdays, family additions... We are so blessed to have each other!! Family will always be there - laughter (and there was a lot last night!), tears (I know I was close to them a couple times), families share these things with you. We lift each other up physically, emotionally, faithfully.
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