Christmas 2022

 Wow!  And in that blink Christmas came and went.  December was a whirlwind--it always is with 2 birthdays in my family, one in our friend/family and a bevy of work challenges.Added to that were sicknesses--the kids and then me.  I inconveniently became ill on the 19th.  I got through that birthday party but woke sicker on the 20th.  I was out of commission that day and the following Monday.  It is super rare for me to call out of work so you know I was really feeling low.  I was well enough to go back to work Tuesday and do things like stocking shopping, food shopping etc, but I still don't feel well.  It's annoying.  I am a lousy patient.

Despite that, Christmas was wonderful.  Rob was here, and Fiona was in the Big City with other family as she was here on Thanksgiving. I texted her  a Merry Christmas and a Happy Birthday.  I made our traditional home made cinnamon rolls for breakfast and despite usually wanting to sleep late, KC had us all up by 7 a.m. Gifts were thoughtful and appreciated.  Laughter was plentiful.  

I found myself melancholy last night as I realize that there may not be many more years when we are all together like this on Christmas morning.  Rob has been in a relationship for over a year now and though we have extended a welcome to bring his girlfriend and her son anytime, they have not done so.  He comes on his own but never with her.  At some point if the relationship continues, I am sure they will want their own traditions and the timing of ours will have to adjust.  KC is looking at colleges and next year he may  not be home.  I'm sure he will come home on break but he won't be part of decorating the house,,making chocolate houses,  and driving around looking at lights and all they myriad traditions that have evolved over the years and make up our Decembers.

I want this for them.  I want them to fly and soar and test their wings.  I want them to do this when they can still come home to roost when wind buffets young wings too badly, so I can give them hot cookies and fresh made rolls and a hug. I hope to see them imparting some of our traditions--with their own spins--to a new generation.

But I would be lying if I said that I am not missing putting out the magic key for Santa, reading carefully lettered lists, reading bedtime stories under the Christmas tree . . .  And I am realizing that at this point in my life there are fewer Christmas mornings ahead of me than there are behind me.