The Holiday of Rememberance

For most adults (and some kids), the Yule tide/Christmas/Chanukah/et al Holiday season is bitter-sweet. It is a time to gather family and enjoy the gift of giving. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of nature as she sheds her clothes and catches her deep sleep. It is a time to reflect on the past and plan for the future.

The last few years have been magnanimous with change in our household, especially in regards to the loss of family. This month brought the death of a much-respected and loved uncle, so Christmas has also had a few tears. My husband has also felt the absence of his kids keenly, so bringing more cheer to the holiday was imperative. I'm thankful for every moment with that man.

The end of the year also brought a host of school concerts and menu planning for the holidays. Our oldest had a HUGE band concert, which was excellent (she was second chair flute as a freshman and is poised to be first chair flute and piccolo next year). Our middle one had her first strings recital as a new violation player. Happily, none of the members of the crew made their instruments sound overly constipated. It was an exciting night! She also had her school musical and continues with her love for singing. In her off time, though, she loves chatting with friends and being domesticated. That girl actually LIKES to clean. It's mind blowing! Our youngest is a little drifty but enthusiastic- like a good soprano. She's our love bug, and we do love the guaranteed hugs. She's felt the death of loved ones most keenly, and, having lost all biological grandparents except my mom's mother, she loves Brock's mom to pieces. We are thankful to see our family up north a few times a year, and between good food, good humor, and lousy dice, it is a delight. I am thankful for such a wonderful NORMAL family.

Well, it is time to play Settlers of Catan. Ie time to lose to the the two that gang up on me. Lol Happy Holidays to you and yours. Be safe. Love lots.