Christmas

     This time last year I wrote something in a personal journal about how odd it was to have Christmas away from my parents and siblings, to know that presents wouldn't just "appear" under the tree anymore and that morning have the little something extra special to it. Yes, I realize how the presents got there and as much as I love a good story or fairy tale, I don't hold my beliefs in them. It's just nice to have that little extra something that you know you can't do on your own. This year, I got to spend Christmas at home in the house a grew up in with the family I love and grew up with. Even with my mom frantically putting things together and trying to make Christmas everything like it usually is, it never quite has the same quality of magic and joy as a child waking up on Christmas morning. To have such blind faith that some big man dresses in red would climb down the chimney and leave them presents if they had been good. That mixed with the fun of snow, always made it special. Now it's just the family and the love we share with each other and the smiles we see on each face that make Christmas worth it. I miss the little bit of magic and blind faith, sure. But growing up and realizing how important other things are is much more meaningful to me. I can't begin to express how happy I am to be here with everyone, though I do miss the warm comfort of my own bed. Heh. Here's to wishing that everyone had a lovely Christmas and has a happy new year.