Happy Holidays!

This is a family day. Early morning we will rise and walk the dog, then on to my son’s home with his beautiful wife and son. Joining us will be my daughter and her wonderful husband and two gorgeous daughters. My former wife and her gracious husband will round out the gathering for breakfast, laughs and then settling before the Christmas tree.

Hoots of laughter, memories shared from over the years, and hopes and dreams for the future will sparkle. The glitter of the decorations is a small part of the twinkling sparkle of the day. The main course is the people in the room. And we will chalk up another Christmas Day spent together. That alone is gift enough.

Later in the day we will attend another family gathering, this one of the widow of Rocky’s brother, Sharon. Her granddaughters will be there, a daughter in law or two will be present, and a great granddaughter, too. We will catch up with one another, share some laughter and a few gifts, then consume a large meal.

Sharon has a few more surprises in store for the family. We have been a part of that process to produce a special memory for the rest of the family. They should be well pleased and be warmed by it.

We will stop by our home to pick up the dog while transiting between son John’s home and Sharon’s home. The dog is part of the family and brightens the lives of others, too. And then home to our quiet space with the dog. We will cuddle in our chairs and watch TV and while away the remainder of the holiday.

The quiet is good. It is comforting. It is a cocoon that allows meditation and remembering. Music of the season will brighten our evening. So too will an old movie or two on cable. All are part and parcel of our holiday. And it is good.

The hustle and bustle of the season was not a component for us this year. Much more simple times than past holidays. That means the day after Christmas is quiet, too. Our errands are done. Our social obligations are at rest. We can read a book, take a nap, clean a room, eat a snack or watch TV. No scurrying around to stores for returning an ill-fitting sweater. No coupons or gift certificates to redeem. No, ours is the simpler, quieter holiday that keeps giving its reward.

And that is a blessing to be cherished.

Merry Christmas to you all. And may peace and goodwill be yours in the coming year.

December 25, 2015