Christmas Present

I have been having a difficult time getting in the Christmas spirit this year.  Part of it is because the Legislature went into special session right after Thanksgiving and we couldn't take any time off.  Mostly though, I think, it is the fact that my mother isn't here to celebrate and, for some reason, that makes all the difference.  It is harder to get my brothers to commit to holidays without my mother as the draw.  It is hard for all of us, I know, because our kids are grown and have in-laws homes to visit at also, and we can't claim all their time.  But something has been missing this year. 

I am trying to make an effort because, as my daughter told me, "You don't want your grandson to think Grandma's a humbug."  Knowing I wasn't going to be able to take time off, I made sure that most of my gifts were purchased before Thanksgiving, I've been working on a rather involved project for my grandson and I knit him some mittens, and I've purchased everything else, including the stocking stuffers.  But my tree is sitting undecorated in the dining room and the only decorations I have up are an advent calendar and the wreath on the front door.

I guess this is going to be the week I decorate and bake.  I'll probably leave everything up for a while into the new year, since it all went up so late.  And this is going to be the year I make everyone play games with me.  We haven't had any good games going since my dad passed away.  He always played games with everyone and anyone all afternoon.  I miss that.

~Jane - with the finally decorated tree, although the garland wouldn't behave this year.