FWE disappointment dec 28/12

I would be gravely disappointed if I didn't get to see at least some of our kids on Christmas or close to it.  My daughter usually comes through for some of it.  Every year my in-laws host a huge family gathering and most of our wing of the Vaughan clan show up. This year hubby was visibly disappointed when none of his four made an appearance. We knew it was unlikely that two of them didn't make it as Mike had to work and Tara told us in advance that she was taking a pass on it. Shea and Andrea and Sheas girlfriend didn't show at all.  Jim felt like a fish out of water. Peg our momma bear was disappointed that some of the grandchildren and two of her own weren't going to make it. The reasons are understandable but disappointing nonetheless.

Christmas time is sometimes filled with expectations that can't be met. Family reunions that just don't come together can be devastating to those who pin all their hopes on them.  Kids write wish lists that they expect to be fulfilled but when dad doesn't get that anticipated bonus to pay for said big ticket item there are bound to be some very unhappy campers.  What about that little kid that just found out from a friend or sibling that The fat man in red is a myth. There are gonna be tears for sure.

It would be so easy for us to lower our expectations on the season. Instead everyone wants the best Christmas ever, the ring, the bonus and a belief that Santa will deliver that big toy they coveted. I am just glad to see some of my kids and reach the end of the year with some semblance of sanity.