A Mixed Bag

misty landscapeThis holiday has been strange. I think the expectation and what marketing execs want to suggest is that Christmas or whatever holiday we celebrate must be happy. Everyone smiles, there is no conflict, tables are laden with food and the Christmas tree can hardly be seen for all the presents around it.

australian cattle dogThe older I get, the more I realise this is not what the holidays are about. This year for me it is a mixed bag of emotions. It is the first Christmas without my father, the first in a new home, living with my daughter, son-in-law and grand baby. It is a happy time, but it is also sad…busy, crazy and at times overwhelming. Presents have taken a back stage, what counts are the people around me, the people I’ve lost…friends and supportive neighbors, and my home. I’m grateful beyond measure for the life I get to lead, the people surrounding me.

No matter what you’re feeling: sad, happy, confused, cynical, angry, thankful, disappointed…I wish you peace and health, may the New Year bring, what you hope for.