Finally, Christmas has come together at my house with no time to spare. I have been focusing on making the house festive for my DIL's first Christmas in America, and it is just about finished.
At the same time I need to remember there are people in my realm who are really struggling this year.
My sister's office closed permanently because of Covid. It means she had to retire early or find another job, but jobs in advertising are few and far between right now.
My neighbor has a 7 year old daughter in the hospital and they are struggling to find a diagnosis. Scary!
One of my favorite bloggers faces surgery right before Christmas and will be hospitalized during the holiday.
Two of my very good friends have lost their husbands in the past couple of months.
Covid is increasing and several people I know are positive.
Then last night we got the bad news that DIL2's stepfather passed away.
I thought today, as I prayerfully reflect on all of these, a more poignant Christmas song might be appropriate.
I'm so glad you were able to pull everything together for your DIL's first Christmas in America, I had no doubt that you would - it would have been special even if it wasn't to your standards. I'm so sorry to hear of those who are struggling, there are a few in my realm as well. I love the beautiful carved angel and you definitely captured your feelings in the display as well. Holiday hugs!
ReplyDeleteToday was a blue Christmastime day. I know tomorrow will be better.
DeleteSometimes, I wonder how people can handle the sadness and the circumstance the US finds itself in now. It makes me feel grateful my children and grandchildren are safe and none of my friends have died. From where is dil2?
ReplyDeleteHopefully you will be able to see your kids and grandkids either in person or via FaceTime or Zoom during the holidays. DIL2 is local.
Deletedil's first Christmas in America?--confused with dil2. -
DeleteThey are two different people. Anne has 3 DIL's and her DIL3 is from Sweden, and a beautiful performing artist!
DeleteYes, I just found out a friend has lung cancer (she was going to retire this year!). Hoping for the best possible prognosis. So my sadness about Covid and Christmas changes have been put in its place!
ReplyDeleteAltering our holiday plan is so small compared to what so many people are facing.
DeleteChristmas is always difficult for some, and this year it will be hard for lots more. I am sorry to hear that difficulties are so close to you.
ReplyDeleteAnd OF COURSE you got the decorating finished. I had less than no doubt about it.
Love your angel too.
Difficulties are always around all of us, but when one (I) is/am being petty because things are different then you think of what some very near and dear to you are going through, you realize how truly difficult a holiday can be,.
DeleteMy deepest sympathies to your DIL2, Anne. This Christmas is really one of the saddest ones for a lot of people, I think.
ReplyDeleteYour song choice, today, is one of my favorites! And you have created a lovely vignette on that table.
I think the holidays can be terribly sad for many people too.
DeleteHow pretty the music and your angel/table. All is well here- I'm out to deliver some goodies to a few clients on their front porches by 8 AM. All my clients have disabilities and several have very little family support so this is something I can do to make the holidays 'a little bit better' on a personal basis. Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful of you to do that for your clients.
DeleteMy sympathies to you DIL on the passing of her stepfather. I know personally the feeling of loss around Christmas and though it gets easier with each passing year, there is a still a wish for one more Christmas together.
ReplyDeleteYour little angel is lovely and a sweet memory of your Dad. Take care, stay well and enjoy your Christmas with your family.
The angel is a sweet Dad memento, but I do have a lot of them. He was always one to pick up something he thought you might like and give it to you just because it reminded him of you.
DeleteMy sympathies for your DIL-sad to lose people anytime, but the holiday season seems doubly hard. I am keeping CC in my thoughts as she heads for her surgery, she is so brave and positive and I wan tto be that for her as well. I love your angel. Fitting to leave out year round.
ReplyDeleteI have her in my thoughts as well. I wish I had an address so I could flood her with well wishes
DeleteChristmas--it can be the best of times and the worst of times. Here's hoping that even in the worst of times, we all can find something to smile about.
ReplyDeleteDavid Bowie and Bing Crosby--an unlikely pairing in my mind, but a good one.
There is always some joy, even if it is just joy the relief that comes with tears brings.
DeleteYou're right, so many people are suffering - covid or non-covid-related and we (I) have nothing to complain about, but I guess it's human nature too isn't it. I'm sorry for your sister losing her job but I hope that enforced early retirement turns out to be a real plus, even if it wasn't planned!
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying her premature retirement. It enabled us to get a lot done together at Mom's. She is fine financially, just a little bored.
DeleteI'm sorry about your DIL2 losing her stepfather. A dear friend of mine just lost her father this week. It's been a long and sad year. I hope your other DIL enjoys her first Christmas in America. You sure have decorated beautifully for her. I'm excited to hear what she thinks of it after their visit. Despite the sadness, I hope you have a good weekend, Anne.
ReplyDeleteI will not have a bad weekend, but DIL and her mom will occupy a huge part of my heart. I use the term DIL for all 3 but in my mind it is never Daughter in Law but is Daughter in Love, because I love all three of them dearly.
DeleteThere is so much suffering these days. I understand your mood and wish the best to your loved ones facing hardships right now. Your dad's gift is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThank you T'Pol! You and I are both facing a year of "firsts" and things are a little more difficult than they normally would be.
DeleteThis year has been rough for all of us, but especially so for those who have lost loved ones. I remember when that Bing Crosby Christmas special first aired. I have never tired of listening to Bing and David sing together.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Janie
For such diverse styles their voices meld beautifully.
Delete