We have a few traditions associated with this day. The first one occurs mid afternoon when Ian offers to help set the table.
TRADITION 1
Ian: Would you like help setting the table?
Me: Um... I guess... if you really want to. (I know what's coming)
Ian: There's a lot of people here, do you just want to use paper plates?
Me: No, I want to use the china.
Ian: Are you sure?
Me: Yes, I'm quite sure.
Ian: Should I get the glasses from the kitchen? You don't want to use the crystal do you?
Me: Yes, I want to use the crystal.
It is the same conversation we will have at Christmas and then again at Easter. We bought some lovely crystal glasses on a trip to Ireland a few years ago and I think it's funny that Ian never wants use them. There is a reason for this which I will explain later.
TRADITION 2
Before our meal begins, we go around the table and each person tells what they are most thankful for. Usually by the time we get to the end there will have been a few laughs and a few tears. It is the best part of my day.
TRADITION 3
We all eat too much turkey and the trimmings but always seem to have enough room for dessert.
TRADITION 4
The guys do the dishes. This is the reason that Ian hates to use the crystal glasses...they need to be hand washed. While I enjoy taking a rest after the meal, I pay for this act of kindness when I get asked a million questions as to where things belong and then for the rest of the week as I try to find all my kitchen gadgets.
TRADITION 5
Relaxing after the meal and dishes are done. This takes many forms but we seem to congregate together and play a game. This year we gathered around our outdoor fireplace and watched the stars come out while drinking hot chocolate.
I think Matthew went a little overboard with the fire but I'll let you be the judge.
The only thing that kept this from being an absolutely perfect day was the absence of Daniel, Olivia, and Adam. We missed them. : (
These are the traditions that make all the childhood temper tantrums worth it!
ReplyDeleteAww we missed you guys too!! That all looks so pretty. I'm sad that I missed out on your yummy food....and will be even more sad at Easter if you make your honey ham. mmm. Don't worry, before you know it we'll be back and you'll be wishing we were over here in New Zealand and not at your place emptying you cupboards :) haha.
ReplyDeleteI understand you'll have your reasons for leaving me off of that list...but we both know the truth. /tapping nose
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