Today I had the pleasure of enjoying a holiday luncheon with 5 other wonderful ladies. We were guests of our sweet Gracie. The company was great, the surroundings were beautiful and the food was delicious. This started me thinking about holidays past. The experience of Christmas has changed over the years...and each period of time is remembered by particular senses. When I was young, the fragrance of Christmas was amazing....the freshly cut tree, the fire burning in the livingroom fireplace, the smell of the cold, crisp air as we would walk through the lighted displays in one of the local parks. As a parent of a youngster who still marveled at the thought of Santa, it was the excitement of watching my little boy gaze at his huge pile of gifts and his happiness as he opened his presents. When he was older there was still excitement, but it would take a while for him to get to his presents...that was the only day he'd sleep in...
Then it was time to enjoy the holidays with our grandkids. Again, heart racing excitement when they'd open a gift and it would be something they really wanted. Now, the kids are older, they're not near us this year and other feelings come to be noticed. Now it's the holiday with those we love, those who have become family...friends we've made while living here in this beautiful community. Now it's a feeling of peace and contentment that fills the body and spirit.
Each day I am thankful for all the wonderful people here who have come into my life. Somehow, those we meet become friends very quickly and the feeling of having known them for years and years just is!
Merry Christmas to all of you!