Here today...gone tomorrow

Christmas has come and gone. This wonderful holiday went by way too quickly. I attempted to sit back, take a deep breath, and savor every magical moment of this joyous holiday season. To smell the wonderful pine and cinnamon fragrances; to taste the homemade candy, the sugar and peanut blossom cookies; to see and enjoy the lights and decorations; to truly listen to the conversation and laughter of family and friends, and; of course the presents. I wouldn't be telling the truth if I said I didn't enjoy opening my gifts, especially from my husband. I love to watch his face as I open each one, as I am sure he enjoys watching my reaction when I see what each package holds. I like to take my time opening each one, to enjoy every moment...while he's the opposite...he can't open his fast enough. I keep the bows; he forgets this quirk of mine and sometimes wads them up with the pretty paper. I pick up the paper off the floor and carefully tear off the pretty bow. In years past I would open each gift very carefully so I could reuse the paper too. I imagine this behavior stemmed from having to be so frugal for so many years. I just hated to waste things, and still do.

Furthermore, something I did notice while out shopping this season, was that so many people wished me a Merry Christmas, not the alternative Happy Holidays. This was wonderful to hear, especially in a society that is beginning to shun the word "Christmas". To the few people that didn't express Merry Christmas, I wholeheartedly wished them one, to which some would joyously respond back with a Merry Christmas, and others would just look dejected and mutter "you too".

Even though Christmas is past, wouldn't it be amazing to keep the spirit of this special season in our hearts all year. We need to be of service to the less fortunate and remember to say a kind word and encourage those that are having a bad day. This is sometimes difficult to do, and we are inclined to forget, especially with the trials and tribulations of every day life. It's easy to get discouraged and worry. Just remember to smile...it does wonders.