Howell Christmas

Yesterday was designated the day for Howell Family Christmas in Magee. We have recently experienced the loss Mrs. Lou. Right after Thanksgiving, we suddenly lost her. Our hearts were broken to lose that infectious laughter that she brought. It was just 2 1/2 years ago that we had to walk through our first Christmas with out Maw-Maw. Our hearts were still heavy from that loss and Mrs. Lou had brought a sense of joy back into the house. She and Maw-Maw were dear friends so Mrs. Lou kept much of the "Mary-ness" about the house.

Our visit began with the Mealins and our family spending the night with Paw-Paw. The kids played card games, listened to Evan jam on his electric guitar, and laugh so hard they almost cried. There was some story about "nuggets" that had Evan and Wynn in stitches. The kids got to camp out in the "art house".

Julie and I finished cooking and crawled in the bed to catch up! I am so blessed to have a sister-in-law (and family) that we can just pick up where we left off the last visit. Julie is more like a sister to me, and I am very blessed!

I woke on Thursday to the smell of Philip cooking bacon for everyone. It wouldn't be a trip to Paw-Paws if Philip wasn't making his famous breakfast. (bacon, eggs & biscuits). Julie and I got gumbo and fixings (Paw-Paws potato salad) ready for the masses. We have many great memories sitting in that kitchen while Philip cooks and enjoying our coffee and storeis. We laugh, we remember, we cry, we eat...it doesn't get much better. Kids trickle into the kitchen one by one. We take turns getting ready and regulating the hot water.

Finally, more cousins and in-laws.

There are 12 Howell Grands that range in age from 17-8. Lou brought with her a daughter, son-in-law, three grands and a son. Our house is full, but fun. The Friend kids always gather the Howell kids for a board game or cards.

Trippe hooked up with some Star Wars legos. The girls got make-up bags from the Greg Howells. Paw-Paw gave the parents a number game in receiving our gifts. Items he had picked up on one of his many mission trips. (A new bread basket and candle holder).I think one of my favorite memories was watching Wynn be Paw-Paws helper to pass out gifts. (until it was time to stop and open her own). .

She picked right back up with her duties once her excitement over her Zhu-Zhu pets was past. (thanks Evan). She gave Paw-Paw the biggest hug when she saw the large bill placed inside her envelope from him.

That baby just loves her Paw-Paw

This was a hard Christmas without Mothers and Grandmothers. It was hardest most of all for Paw-Paw.

He took time to write the Grans a special note to express his love for them.

Even through the tears and heartache, we found some laughter and new memories.