Ramblings of an Old, Romantic Soul

Merry Christmas!  The poem below was written in 2012.  My dear friend graciously sent it back tome yesterday.  It is somewhat whimsical, using different Christmas carols, but the true Christmas spirit shines through. Between visitors, Mom, and prepping for the holiday, my writing has been sparse. My heart is still full of joy and happiness as we prepare for the coming of our Lord. Gifts have been bought, cards have been sent, and today Mom and I will wrap the gifts and place them under the tree.  May each of you hold the magic of Christmas in your heart.  May the season be filled with wonder, love, and grace.  And may 2021 bring only much joy and many blessings to all! 

And love.  This time of year the weather is beautiful in Florida. It is not cold nor hot, just gorgeous. Even so, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!  Thanksgiving was a day filled with family and food, and though Mom did not join us, she enjoyed her day of peace and solitude. It was a win win for all concerned.   Terry has been off work for the past four days - another blessing.  We've had time to decorate the house together, do yard work, put up our outdoor manger scene, and just have quality time.  Mom has been delightful.  She has joined us on two excusrions, and is looking forward to evening drives to see the array of Christmas lights.  She loves the house, and the tree.  She did not feel up to helping with the tree decorations, but she loved the Christmas music, loved watching Terry and I work together, and gave her advice on where ornaments should be hung.  Come evening, the house is comforting, warm, and cozy - like a hu...

Expectations never live up to the hype in my mind, and usually end in disappointment.  I know this. Yesterday started with high hopes and ended in tears. On my part. But first, a little history that may explain why my anticipation was so great. Years and years ago - perhaps 50ish - Mom received a beautiful manger scene for her birthday/Christmas presents.  Dad gave her the creche, and my siblings and I gave her the figurines. It has been one of Mom's prized possessions.  It has been displayed every Christmas.  It has been the centerpiece of our family's Christmas celebrations.  We would gather round the manger and sing Christmas carols, then each grandchild would walk up to the manger and place the figurine (of their choice ) into the manger. The youngest grandchild would lay baby Jesus in the crib and we would sing happy birthday to Jesus.  Beautiful memories that will forever live in my heart.  Back to yesterday.  My plan - and this wa...