Merry Christmas to You

Christmas Eve morning... my tree lights are on, Christmas music playing, a time for peaceful reflection.

Sometimes at Christmas I get a little down. I'm sure I'm not the only one; it seems to be a natural thing for a lot of us. I miss my brother. Can't quitebelieve it's been 27 years since he died. Crazy. I think about what our adult relationship would be like. I think about enjoying sporting events with him. I imagine all the sarcastic comments we would make to each other. I wonder if he would build me bookcases or coffee tables. I think about being an aunt to his kids. I miss having someone that looks like me (or who I look like). I love him.

This fall has been difficult and challenging at work. Feeling a lot of pressure and sadly, some of the joy of my job has escaped me. I don't like that and am working on getting it back. My students this year are awesome. Really. They are funny, kind, generous, intelligent. They enjoy one another and are supportive of their classmates. They make me smile every day and they remind me of the joy of life. There is more to teaching than test scores. The conversations we have in class, well, they're hard to explain. But my students are great and it's a pleasure to teach them. How lucky I am to have an impact on their lives and learning. I so appreciate the parents of my students as well. I'm blessed to have their support and to enjoy the growing friendships with them. My job is pretty sweet and I'm thankful to get to do what I do.

Last weekend was spent with old friends I grew up with. Some I haven't seen in over 25 years. Seven of us came together for a few days and enjoyed food, drink, laughter, and memories. We all turned out pretty cool, if you ask me.

I'm lucky to have a wonderful circle of friends. Old friends from high school, friends from work, and friends from church. A friend through Facebook, even (we share the same name!).

Last night I had dinner with my sisters and their significant others. That's right, sisterS. I held my little half-sister in the hospital when she was born, before her new parents took her home. Almost 21 years later, we connected again. I cannot tell you how many times I've thought of her over the years. I missed her and loved her. So, last night we three girls (and our three men) broke bread. Amazing. And a little surreal...

In November, James and I found our way back to each other. It's been three years since we've met, and we've been through a lot together. Divorce is difficult, and so are the recovering times after. I've learned a lot, done some growing (mentally and spiritually) and found happiness again. I love that man. What a secure and content feeling it is to know that James and I are where we're meant to be.

Today I head down to Kent to spend Christmas Eve with James's cousins (who I very much enjoy). Tomorrow is Christmas at my sister's house. Delicious meals and family at both locations. The one thing missing is my dad, who lives in Florida. But, there are phone calls and emails and we'll send Christmas wishes that way.

I hope this Christmas finds you peaceful, joyful, and thankful for those around you. Hug your friends and family. Buy a stranger a latte and bask in the Christmas cheer.

XO to you and yours.