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It's the week before Christmas and lots of us are bustling around, trying to finish last minute shopping, baking or projects. We're so wrapped up in everything we need to finish, getting the perfect gift, making sure our houses are spotless for company, etc. that sometimes we forget what makes the holidays so special in the first place. And to me, being with family is what makes this time of the year extra special.
This weekend I will be spending time with my significant other Jamie's family in Platteville, gathering around the Christmas tree we'll probably put up last minute (one of our traditions) and enjoying a 7 and 7 (or two - another one of our traditions). On Christmas Eve, I will be with my Grandma and my mother's side of the family, playing the Left/Right game and watching "A Christmas Story." Then on Christmas Day, Jamie and I will spend the day together, and later in the week, we will spend time with my family in Dodgeville.
It doesn't matter if you see your family every day or every once in awhile, if you hate being around one or spend too much time around another - being together for Christmas is special.
As you spend time with your family this Christmas, I challenge you to think about each person in your family and remember why you're thankful for them. Family is so important - and recognizing how important each family member is just might make Christmas a little brighter this year.