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Working really, really hard at letting go and not picking it all up again.

This year will be the biggest change in our traditional holiday routines. For nearly 40 yrs. they've remained pretty much the same. Another up-coming break from what seemed so "permanent". I want these changes to come with minimal pain and disappointment; instead with true peace and a quiet heart.

Changes are hard...but are inevitable. Accepting them gracefully should be our goal. And I know you will accept them with grace.

Blessings,

Our flesh wars against what our spirit wants but the flesh has to give way. When it seems like we're loosing the battle, look up! Our help comes from the hills.
Psalms 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

May I ask how your holidays are changing after so long?

I had to make changes and I'm sure ashamed of the fuss I kicked up! Hard work getting the flesh to come into line with the Word, isn't it? LOL We'll make it and bless God for the progress.

Big hugs, sister!!

Sorry I missed your reply tab.

For 40 yrs. Thanksgiving and Christmas have been at our house with all coming here...if they were not out of town and couldn't get time off. It was always draining doing all the decorating, cleaning, and cooking and then the house crammed. Daughter has managed to make things more stressful by always seeming to have a new *husband* with his children while trying to work with the *original* Husband and G-children during these holidays and we've tried to be gracious.

This year is completely different. Middle son came 3 wks ago with his family because he couldn't get Thanksgiving off but can be here Christmas. Oldest son has a serious girlfriend (at last) and is coming this weekend to introduce her to us. (STRESS!!!) Daughter has new beau who has lots of baggage and history. She invited us to come to her house....but we're not ready. We're in the midst of some serious issues; it's complicated. Plus Mom lives with us now. So Husband decided that we would just go to Cracker Barrel for Thanksgiving. It sure will be less hectic but no other family here and G-children gone separately with their respective Mom & Dad. God says "NO" to divorce for a reason. :~(

Merry...I'm working on letting go & yielding. I'm just confused between the difference in enabling and showing grace & mercy.

Cracker Barrel Cooks do a good job cooking! Our neighbors do Thanksgiving/Christmas at the Golden Correl, invites family members who wants to met them there.
Sounds like a GOOD plan to me!!

Jo...this is hard for you but you'll come through this with grace.
You just need some space/time to handle all the changes.

Caring for your mother; meeting possible new DLW;maybe a new SLW.
Big stress for any one.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal at the Cracker Barrel...You'll probably see some friends there!
Blessings,
merry

Have a Wonderful time!! Sounds like smart thinking on your part. neutral territory and less stress on you. No need to make yourself older than you are with your body collapsing from tension, strife and problems. Guard yourself so you will live a long and healthy life.