For the first time in several years, the ground is covered with snow, and more expected tomorrow night. Children everywhere will be so excited to know that Santa’s sleigh (and his eight tiny female reindeer) will have an easy landing strip as he jaunts from house to house.
Ski hills in the area must be thrilled. In recent years they’ve had to make snow (not nearly as nice as the stuff falling from the sky) and then watch it all melt away with abnormally warm temperatures and rain, of all things, in December and January. This year they’ll have a good base of the ‘real’ stuff to keep them going. Anyone who receives skis or snowboards or other outdoor winter toys as Christmas gifts (or who have them stored in a garage somewhere) may actually get to enjoy them! Not me – I am NOT a cold weather person, preferring to shelter inside, by the fireplace, with a hot toddy and a good book – cat on lap, dog at my feet.
Christmases are different now. Over the past couple of years we’ve lost both of our children. Each of us came into this marriage with one adult child. Sadly, Joel’s daughter died two years ago at only 35 years of age, and my son died last year at 50. Christmas has changed for us and others like us, including our “exs”, who have lost children.
Christmas used to be a joyful event filled with laughter, music, too much food and fun. Now it’s more quiet – a time for reflection. We miss what’s gone but love the many memories of Christmases through the years.
Whatever holiday you celebrate at this time of year – I wish you joy, warmth, friendship, family and the making of more good memories.
Christmas through the years…
Capturing Cherished Memories 