We go through this every year probably not unlike every other family on this planet. And while I may be thankful I don't have to fly across the country or take a 5 hour road trip to spend a day far from home, I do have to plan things out well ahead of time.
Not much room for improvisation the day of... when we have to have what amounts to four separate Christmases. First thing is first... wake up and have our own Christmas - probably around 7ish. Just us and the cats. That shouldn't take an incredible amount of time. Then get cleaned up and dressed and head to Christmas #2 at her parents - probably around 8:30 or 9? At least that is only about 15 minutes away.
We may end up with a simple breakfast there. That won't be so bad and really shouldn't take too long as her brother and sister-in-law will not actually be there this year. From there we move on to my brother's place. Typically this step would be at my mom's house - but she has to work during the day (nursing sucks for holidays). I figure this will be around 11 or 11:30 and also should not take very long.
From there we are off to the big one. The "family" Christmas at my aunt & uncle's place. This will just kind of happen whenever it happens depending on the rest of the morning. If we can get through the early stages quick enough we can get there at a reasonable time. I'd like to shoot for some time before 2pm... then we just stay there for dinner (mmm, steak).
Sure, I have a plan. Now let's just see how well we can stick to it. Of course all is not lost if we fall behind... it's only Christmas, right?
ONE COMMENT ON THIS POST To “Christmas Logistics”
Chad
December 23, 2009 at 1:37 pm5 hour drive… *raises hand…Oh well, Pandora and/or Sirius make it somewhat less painful.