Yesterday our house went from no Christmas to Christmas in a matter of hours. My husband cleaned and moved furniture, put up the tree and strung the lights. I went through the 4 tubs of decorations deciding how it will look this year. I chose simple glittery balls, a few of the remaining antique ornaments, and sentimental pieces. Later, when my daughter gets home for winter break, we are going to make a variety of ornaments to compliment the tree and add to the collection.
The thing about the holidays is that it holds so many memories - good and bad - and it is easy to get lost in that. Last year I was lost in a whirl of depression and loss during the holidays and had the hardest time making any movement towards joy. What I didn't have (or who I didn't have) was so much larger than what I did have - which almost cost me who I have today.
This year, though the memories are still there, they are filled with a full heart. I have had exceptional loves in my life, holidays filled with laughter and tears, and family who is just as excited to watch Charlie Brown's Christmas Special as I am. I am truly blessed - and this year I remember.
(The photo above is filled with memories: the fan is from my brothers tree, turned sideways is an ornament of me that my sister did years ago, and the paper Merry Christmas ornament was made by my brother from a design made by our grandmother.)
