I hope you all had a magical and lovely Christmas,
filled with all good things life has to offer.
Thank you for your Dear, Sweet Christmas Wishes.
I cherish every one.
The day after Christmas is a time for reflection,
A time to savor the memories while they are still fresh in our minds.
We have celebrated the blessings of the season,
as we make new memories with one another,
and remember those we are separated from through time and space;
but no less in attendance within our hearts.
As I tidy up the morning after, I hear the love and laughter
echoing through the house, loudly through the silence.
With each dish I wash, little bits of conversations come to mind -
A precious childhood story, a funny anecdote, or the catching up of everyday modern life.
As I find little mementos of our family celebration,
I can't help but feel a little bittersweet that it is all over.
It all goes by so fast, doesn't it?
It was a whirlwind.
It all swirled around me as I flitted from one task to another, doing what I do best,
taking care of my family and enjoying each moment.
(My Gingerbread House shelf is looking a bit bare today -
after sending them all off with loved ones! :)
And then it was over and I didn't get one photo.
But that is perfectly fine,
Because every precious moment was spent just enjoying each and every one.
(Don't worry, the phone devices were flashing all day!
For some truly cringe-worthy photography! :)
And now, the day after, I am feeling a little melancholy.
But there were small 'After Christmas' surprises to keep me going today.
A sweet cactus bloom.....
Gorgeous sunshine on a still December day....
And the sweet, intoxicating scent of the paperwhites that just started blooming!
Happy in their indoor garden, which makes me happy.
After Christmas we take time to remember those who held us in their thoughts,
through sweet tokens of kindness.
Taking time to write and send a card, is a treasured thoughtfulness worthy of display.
Each one a thoughtful reflection of its sender,
And miniature works of art!
I always keep my Christmas cards in little bundles according to year,
and now I am so glad because they include cards from loved ones now gone.
I know this is a time-honored tradition done by many other sentimental people before me,
and this vintage card survived as testament!
Found in an assorted bag of paper ephemera at an antique shop,
it is nearly 100 years old!
With a sweet sentiment written all those long years ago.
Can you believe postage was only 1 cent?
Precious cards from family stand on my vanity to remind me of their love.
Two gold earrings a sweet token of a very special love.
So, as this year's Christmas is still lingering in our hearts,
And daily life goes back to normal,
I take the time to count my many blessings,
and wish many, many blessings to you in return.
xoxo
Not truth, but faith it is that keeps the world alive.
- Edna St. Vincent Millay -
