missing Bama & revisiting Christmas

Dear Bama, 

Christmas was in Pendleton this year.  We had moved cows most of the day, so as usual, we weren't on time. Bryn & Josh picked the boys up early, so they were able to have a full afternoon of fun with their cousins creating chaos throughout every part of the house.

Bryn had made a sweater for Josh for a party they had attended earlier in the week - but decided the sweater should be given to Ian.  It has bells attached to it and "rings" with every step.  You would have loved it.  George also had a sweater with a bit of jingle to it, and although it didn't make noise, the moment anyone saw his sweater, laughter would erupt - so it got the same effect as the bells essentially.

Most people like to post pictures where everyone has their eyes open and that are just the right color and are totally in focused.  I guess I'm not most people.  Go figure. I am a Murdock, so you know that is far from "most" people. You see, I'm about a month behind sorting through these pictures, but have realized, that that is a gift in itself.  The magic of Christmas has come rushing back to the forefront of my mind, and I'm giggling to myself as I flip through the pictures on this cold afternoon reliving each little moment.  Pictures are good like that.  They help us remember the best parts of our lives - even when life is hard.

Thing haven't changed much.  Ian doesn't sit down for more than a minute or two usually, but when he does veer away from Mr. Serious - watch out!  His humor settles in and the jokes don't stop. I've caught him laughing more often than not lately - even in the hard - and for that - I'm grateful.

The prime rib {that was far from cheap$$$}did get charred, but was salvaged and enjoyed around 2 full tables.  Tables filled with family, food, glasses of wine, and a bit of chaos.  There is always chaos and that will never change.

We played games, had thumb wars, tickle wars, and even managed to get through a staring contest or two.

Leslie should have charged per piggy-back ride ... she would have made a small fortune.

Hugs were given, kisses were placed, and we somehow managed to get through all the present opening.

And after a wonderful afternoon and evening spent with those we are blessed to call family, I think I know what you'd be telling all of us to remember.

Every year is different, special, and unique in it's own way. Every year is worth the effort of setting aside time to just be together. It's worth all of the dishes that have to be washed. It's worth all of the nerf bullets stuck to the windows. It's worth so much more than that. And as every year will continue to change, someday, it will be our last year. {Every year should be celebrated as if it's the last year because it may just be.}

You were there with us in spirit - I know you were because with the twinkling of the lights and the notes of music playing - God surrounds us with memories of those we love most through gentle whispers! You were there - playing games, laughing, exchanging white elephant presents, and sneaking one more olive. You were there when shouts erupted as wrapping paper was tossed aside. And you were there when the last dish was put away.

Thanks for being a Murdock that we all hope to grow up to be like someday - a woman filled with grace & a sense of understanding that is missed at every gathering we have. Your legacy lives on & hopefully your grace and love are at the forefront of every interaction, every conversation, and every hug any of us that are still here living life the best we know how can give.

Missing you and hoping we're making you proud - 

Lindsay & the rest of the crew

P.S.  Mack is definitely a whisper and a wink from you.