Christmas

Christmas . . . The time of year we stop and reflect on the true meaning of the season.  We recall the stories told to us as children about the virgin Mary and her young husband, Joseph, and the long journey they made to bring their baby into the world.  We recall the story of a baby, our saviour, born in a stable because there was no room in the inn.

Christmas . . . . .The time of year we decorate our homes on the inside and out to rejoice in the season!  Nana gives the kids each a new ornament to hang on their Christmas tree.  We beg the men in our lives to hang the lights up outside.

Christmas . . . . .The time of year we hear everyone singing along to beautiful Christmas carols.  We teach our own children the songs we were taught long ago.  We delight in hearing youngsters singing the songs how they hear them.  "Oh bring us some piggy pudding, Oh bring us some piggy pudding, and bring it right now!" Brogan's rendition this year.

Christmas . . .The time of year most youngsters are being extra good so they can stay on the nice list or get off the naughty list.  And we adults, relish in the fact that we can hold the "Do you want me to call Santa?!?!" over them.  The youngsters look through Christmas catalogs and watch commercials closely to write their wants down for their Christmas list.  We give presents to those we love and smile as we watch them discover what's inside the package.

Christmas . .  .The time of year we spend with our families and friends and find peace and comfort in the relationships we have.  We schedule our gatherings so that we are able to see those we only see once a year.

This Christmas was spent doing much of the same as every Christmas past.  I went Christmas shopping with my mom and sister in Denver, the kids and I put up our Christmas tree and stockings, we went to Christmas Eve mass with my family and opened gifts.  Santa will be arriving soon and tomorrow we will go to the Wolf's for Christmas. 

But this year, we are separated.  Separated by 7,337 miles as my husband figured out today.  This year, Mommy had to lug that heavy #$** tree upstairs all by herself.  This year, Daddy will have to watch the gifts be opened on his computer, hours after they've been opened.  This year, there is one empty chair at the dinner table.  This year, there was a kiss during the sign of peace at mass that I didn't get.  This year, there was no help for Santa's gifts after the children were nesteled all snug in their beds.  This year, a long, long, LONG distance phone call held up gift opening because, but it was SO worth it!! 

This year, we are saddened by the miles put between us, but we are also delighted by the thought of spending next Christmas TOGETHER!!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight!!!