This week we do lots of things that we do every year. The tree, the lights, the big dinner at someone’s house (times two or three sometimes). All of the annual repetition reminds me of the many activities we do regularly, not only yearly, but repeatedly through generations. My first grandchild is being raised by my firstborn, and the things I see them doing remind me so much of the great joy that little life brings. He is one year old, and his dad treats him like a teeny little grown-up. My daughter, his mom, is super-attentive and the results are showing. The kid has lots of curiosity and little fear. Racer material! I remember all the time we spent making sure Grandmas and Grandpas got to see my little people when they were growing up, and now Great-Grandmas etc. get that benefit.
After the dinners and the decorations are finished, we turn to the stuff we think we either should do, or the stuff we would like to do that we never have time for the rest of the year. A lot of time for me has been spent making sure my mom has what she needs, she does not drive anymore, and we shop and deliver for her. I will make special time for my wife and daughter, they see me less in the summer than any of us would like, and maybe a trip to Minneapolis or some late night movies are in store.
I see Matt Kenseth has developed a great sense of humor. His wife and he now have two young girls, an a sense of humor is definitely a bonus in that situation. Matt’s wife Katy broke a shoulder blade in a benefit race in Charlotte, and Matt remarked that he never thought he would have to learn how to put a bra ON!
The family racer has been all over his updated car, and he got some supplies for the effort. I look forward to seeing shiny new things circling the track in the spring. He has been diligent in working regularly on the thing, and everyone is impressed so far. A little garage clean-up would be nice, but he is building a car, don’t let the details get in the way…
I am a couple pounds heavier, and a little lighter in the wallet, but some very sweet people I love are healthy, and we got to spend some nice hours together again, so life is cool right now. Even the little dog has a new bed, and work is a bit of a distraction, because home has been so warm. I look forward to the new year. I hope you do, too.
