I feel a little crazy as joy and sadness intermingle, often in the same moment. Christmas is such an emotional time. Putting the decorations on my tree, for example: Ornaments that remind me of happy occasions bring a smile. Others, like ones made by my mother, cause me to miss her terribly. I have a set of handmade ornaments – stars, a reindeer, two trees and a snowman – that she made with my son, when he was four years old. He’s 31 now. As painful as it is to open that box every year, hanging them on my tree brings her close to me. It takes me back to a time when my kids were little and Christmas filled with magic. Despite the tears, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
So much has changed in the last four years. My mom is gone, but she lives on in the lessons and traditions she taught me, as I pass them on to my children and to my grandson. This is the second holiday season in my new place, so it feels more like home. My favorite decorations have assigned places, once more. Each one connects me to the past. For better or worse, they are part of the decades which have molded me and made Christmas an amazingly special time in my life.
Happily, there are always new ornaments that represent the more recent memories we’ve made – reminders of vacations or special days spent together. There are two additional stockings hung this year as our family expands. We are blessed beyond words.
To deny the painful moments would be to deny parts of my life – some of the very best parts. I choose to let them wash over me. I feel them deeply. The sorrow passes but the love remains. It is, very truly, the best time of the year.
Merry Christmas!
Blog by Babs 
Thanks Barb! I choose Magical Christmas full of LOVE also with all the beautiful memories of my family members and friends who are no longer with us but shared their Lives with me ! Wishing you a VERY MERRY and BLESSED Christmas! xox
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Exactly, Kathie! We CHOOSE joy. Every day, even when it is elusive. Merry Christmas!
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Merry Christmas and a very happy new year!!!!!
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Right back st you, Tina! XO
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“To deny the painful moments would be to deny parts of my life”…that’s exactly how I feel when people have told me how I should mourn my mom after all these years. Our moms, our losses are part of our fabric. As an adult every special moment can seem bittersweet and I miss the magic I felt as a child. I can see it through Theo in these present years and I wouldn’t change my wisdom that comes from loving and losing someone either. I don’t get to read many of your posts – wish I could read all!! So happy I saw this – so well said as always ❤️ Merry Christmas Babs xoxo
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Thanks, Sue. Of course, you get it. Enjoy every moment!
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Merry Xmas my friend. .I have traveled your journey with you and although there have been some bumps and bruises they seem to have healed and the scars you carry will be seen by only you. Happiness is yours again. So very happy for you 💜🌲🎅
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Thank you, Dotti. Love you to pieces!
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