Christmas

There is Christmas ………. and then there is this time of year.

There is the energy, emotion, love, and spirit of the Holidays without her. Then there is this time of year: the days approaching 1 January 2025 and the emotions of those final days.

The latter is a harder place—darker, more personal, and reverent. I suspect the holidays will change and grow over the years, but I don’t think that place ever will—not really.   But I think its it's ok.  I will bear the weight of those days. I will honor them  …….and thank God I had the opportunity to be beside her when heaven came calling.

Now for former - Christmas…… The Holiday without her. My youngest said it best on Christmas morning, after the baby had had her way with the gift wrapping and the adults were sitting, trying to savor one more cup of coffee.

“Dad, you’re a lot of fun and all that, but Mom just had a way of breathing life into Christmas.”

Well said. This Holiday terrified me…. But it shouldn’t have. I, and the kids, miss her presence, her energy, and laughter …. but we’ve been able to talk, share stories, and reminisce without too many tears.

I think we will forge on …. & continue old traditions without her beautiful presence…….and maybe hammer out new ones in the years ahead.

You are so missed, my Love.