Christmas

Christmas seems to have come back faster than ever.  But, this year is different, here are some of the ways this is so.

• Positive - Our family traditions are still important to my children, who are now 21 and 23.  They expect that we will do these things and made sure they were around to participate!  Thanks, kids!  You really made this holiday for me and Dad!  (Traditions list includes Family Reunion Christmas Party, Tree Decorating, Making Christmas Kielbasa.)
• Positive - First time in many years we decorated the house (outside and in) by early December instead of only days before Christmas!  As a result, I've enjoyed our home adorned in festive ornamentation.  It's helped me find the holiday spirit that often alludes me when I am stressing over getting ready!
• Positive - My purchases were made with little consternation, wrapped and sorted, and out of the way enabling me to enjoy Advent without flurrying here and there.
• Positive - Cookies and other sweet treats were baked by us and by my daughter's friends, shared at a Cookie Exchange brunch at our house a week ago.  And, wondrously, we didn't eat them up, so we have plenty to serve on Christmas Eve and take to in-laws on Christmas Day.
• Positive -  My late brother-in-law always brought his parents down for Christmas Eve dinner at our house.  My wonderful son and daughter offered to go an hour each way to get their Grandfather and two Grandmothers so the dinner could continue this year!
• Positive - My own brother, who lives in VT came for a visit and he looked great!  He brought his son along and its been years since we've had the chance to talk in person.  What fun it was!
• Positive - Christmas Party at work, several!  In my youth, when things were less rigid in the office setting, holiday parties were great!  Over the years, focus on political correctness and too many work priorities dampened and almost killed the office Christmas party -- at least in the government setting.  This year's parties were tame compared to some in the past (one early employer rented a hall, hired a band, and catered the event, complete with open bar), but it was especially touching to see how my current employer took time to let us know our dedication and efforts were appreciated over a fine lunch!  It was also fun to join in for the office pot luck and white elephant gift exchange!
• Negative - We lost my brother-in-law, Bruce, in October.  His absence looms over this holiday season and it's just something we must get through.  This is very hard on his elderly parents.  Boo!
• Negative - Our parents are getting older and aren't able to do the things they also did.  So, this year we're still going to their house but a nephew is cooking (since it's too much for our parents to do.)  A sister went over early to clean the house, and instead of their big Christmas tree, they are using a small decorative tree (which is festive without the burden of setup.)

So, the positives outweigh the negatives!  Yes, I'm ready for Christmas and am so happy it's here!  Last year, I was exhausted and working much too hard, so Christmas was just another thing that demanded attention.  I'm so happy that is my past and my present is relaxed and ready - good thing too.  Tomorrow is Christmas Eve!

Merry Christmas!