Starting this Christmas, I get to write my memories of the season, thanks to this blog. This was a memorable one for sure and unique for me. I know New Year's is traditionally the time to reflect. But Christmas has always been sort of a rear view mirror to the year for me. Probably because it's my favorite time of year and my life-clock operates from Christmas-to-Christmas! Regardless, I got a camera for Christmas this year to replace the one that broke months ago. As I looked through the lens, I saw more than just the subjects I was capturing. I really tried to acquire their personalities and emotions of what was going on at the time I was inspired to take the picture (pictures to come soon!). In doing so...you guessed it...I started to cogitate on all that has been going on this holiday season.
I learned Ben was extremely curious this year with the wrapped presents under the tree (they were in different positions every time I walked by!).
I learned while Belle was very excited about her presents under the tree, she was more excited about being surprised by them on Christmas morning.
I recognized that with my Dad's heart surgery coming in just 2 weeks, I was scared. Expecting everything to be fine, but definitely not ready to be on this earth without both of my parents.
I discovered snacking over the kitchen in the island with family was every bit as enjoyable, if not MORE so, than sitting down to a formal Christmas dinner.
I was again reminded the most popular snack food in this family during special occasions is my corn, cream cheese and jalapeno dip. Seriously. It was gone by early afternoon.
I was introduced to the Candlelight service at church and was awestruck at just how peaceful and inspiring church can be when illuminated only by candles while singing Silent Night acapella. And I heard the message loud and clear.
I realized this could be my last Christmas with my Duke-dog. That's all I can say about that if I want to finish this post...
I found out that telling the same stories about the past still brings about the same deep laughter.
I was reminded of the pure and intense bond between father and son. Ben absolutely idolizes D and wants to be with (on!) him. Ben can't wait for him to get home every day, give him a huge hug as if he hasn't seen him in forever and just plain hang on to him and all he says and does.
I recalled my excitement as a child on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning through the eyes of my kids. They deserve absolutely everything and I want nothing less for them. And why not? They are just that sweet, fun, impressionable and full of love - and they are worth every thing. No doubt about it. They make me realize priorities every day, not just Christmas Day.
Which made me realize if I want to be here many, many more Christmases I better get my act together and get healthy. Time must be carved out of my day to work-out. No excuses.
Looking around at family, appreciating both the similarities and differences between all of us, I thought about how lucky we are to have each other. I recognize some people aren't able to be with their families for one reason or another, if they have a family at all. We may have our challenges, it sometimes requires work, and there are always mountains to climb - as with all families - but I believe it strengthens and deepens the bond we have. Again...worth it. My heart is fully and completely wrapped up with these people and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Yep...my favorite time of year. I absolutely love my family unconditionally and am so deeply grateful for all of them. I wasn't sure how this Christmas was going to turn out, but I'm happy to say it was a good one. Christmas is traditionally thought of as a time of miracles, but I've seen them happen on any given day. I have no idea exactly what spurs them to occur (and like most people...I wish I did!), but I'm thankful they exist and hope my family is blessed with many this year. It's true, you know...And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (Corinthians 13:13). I choose to have all three, remembering love is great and deep and resilient.
Always remember and never forget: From a little spark may burst a mighty flame.
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