We've celebrated Christmas together at Abuelita's and Bob's house for as long as I can remember. Every year it's special, but I think this year I felt a little relief mixed in with the Christmas cheer. It was a hard year for everyone, and to have finally made it to Christmas, to be amongst people who are so dear to my heart, felt like a victory.
We all have our own ways of feeling gratitude, and showing it. In my family, we seem to do a bit of everything - and, I might add, at maximum volume, as anyone knows us will already be aware.
We sing, offering our praise off-key, but with enough enthusiasm to make up for the notes that come out a little flat. We dance, in the theatre and in the kitchen, celebrating all that we have been given.
We come together and cook, nourishing body and spirit. We laugh, sweetening the bitter tang of the year's sorrows and refreshing our hearts with a bubbly lightness.
This is my family, and I don't know how I'd live without them. They've taught me everything that's worth knowing.
Strength;
Grace;
Joy.
Christmas is over, but the unexpected snow storm we got last night makes it feel like it almost could be December again, so...
We gathered together, each helping in the final preparations for Christmas dinner, laughing and chatting. I couldn't stop smiling. I ran about the house, snapping photos of everything and everyone, both with my camera and with my heart, snatching at moments, pocketing them for later. It's these precious memories that burn brightly in me and keep me warm during Novembers as cold as this past one.
We're not afraid to touch each other, or to hug, kiss, or say "I love you".
Courage;
Patience;
Fortitude;