It has been a terrible year: full of trauma and loss. I know that we're not the only ones and my prayers go out to all the others who are finding the Christmas joy, still beautiful, still awesome, but a bit contradictory to the way we feel.
And just to clarify, there are still Blessings to be counted: a wonderful marriage and husband; three gorgeous and kind children (two of whom have WONDERFUL mates) and four grands who are all doing well (my mouth to God's ear), a successful family business, fantastic brothers, and the kindness of many around us.
Yet, the losses are substantial: my mother three weeks ago; my friend and next door neighbor two weeks ago; and about 13 extended family/close friends before that.
We managed to decorate the outside of the house, but have skipped the inside...is this a metaphor or what!? I just don't have time to heal before Christmas.
