It is Christmas. A time of religious significance, family traditions, hope, and joy. The happiest time of the year.
As the Christmas season began rolling in, I was very aware of how much has changed for everyone in the past two years. So naturally, I felt sadness, and I longed to experience our Christmas traditions of the past. But, unfortunately, that is not possible, and I needed to change my focus to hope for the future and all of the possibilities the future can bring.
I hope Santa was pleased with my efforts.
In years past, I subscribed to the philosophy of more is better. So I set up two trees in different rooms, and around the tree in the living room, I had a train for my dad. My dad desperately wanted a train when he was a little boy, but he never received one. So Santa brought it a little late, and my dad was so happy.
Helping Santa that year and giving my dad the long-overdue train will always be one of my best memories. My dad was so happy!
I also set up a Christmas Village of Gingerbread houses between the tree and the train. In addition, I had Teddy Bears and a giant Santa Claus doll. I guess it was over the top, but it was perfect for the time.
This year was much simpler. A small Northfork pine was our Christmas tree, and there were minimal gifts.
I was so happy when I realized that my little Northfork Pine plant friend would be there for me long after Christmas!
Years past the entire family got together for a Gingerbread house decorating party.
This year our immediate family was able to get together for Gingerbread decorating. It was so much fun!
Our Gingerbread get-together was so much fun! Maybe the best of all.
We were very fortunate to have our family return Christmas morning for Christmas breakfast. I will share the wonderful casserole recipe I found with you in my next blog.
So now, as I spend a moment reflecting and writing, I realize how lucky and blessed I am. Our Christmas traditions this year were much more straightforward but far more significant! We were together again!
