Sigh. No pictures, no snow, no tree and no cards this year for Christmas.
Life just came at me way too fast and all the decorating and frills that usually happen as part of our Christmas became stressful. I just couldn't find the energy to go there this year. I did write out cards but then getting to the post office to buy stamps didn't happen and so now I have a stack of cards, all dated Christmas 2009, that are doomed to never be mailed.
Instead, my energy went to our trip to Las Vegas two weekends ago, where Glen and I shared some amazing time with my fabulous sisters and partners then these last few days. I wouldn't have traded that for anything in the world.
I also spent time with friends and family and then these last few days, I spent lots of quality time with the two most important people in my world, Glen and Miranda. Last night Miranda came over and made Glen and I pierogis and borscht all from scratch. Crazy good.
Then this morning (late morning, I might add), we exchanged a few gifts...Miranda gave the most amazing gifts to Glen and I...she made contributions to CAT, Portland Women's Crisis Line, Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon and Bradley-Angle House in the name of our family. I cried. She also gave us The Daily Coyote. I cried again. I am over the top in love, inspired, proud and in awe of our young woman. If I ever doubted that I fell short of being a good mother, this Christmas I received the best gift of all...realizing my child has a generous, nuturing and loving heart, full of love, compassion and empathy.
From my heart, I wish you and your families a peaceful, joyful and meaningful Christmas. Love love love and hugs hugs hugs to you and as Miranda wrote in her card to Glen and I,
"Here's to a year of emotional prosperity, reciprocity and being an instrument of giving."
Hey, who says you can't mail those cards! You make the rules; mail them! I'm sure the recipients will be just as thrilled to have them after Christmas as before! We should celebrate our lives everyday..... sounds as though your sweet daughter Miranda knows that! She gave gifts that will continue to give and influence! Happy Everything Sweet Michelle!
Posted by: Julie B. | December 28, 2009 at 07:58 AM
How wonderful... sometimes when we sit back and forget all the frills (even if it is not intended) we find our most precious gifts. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
~hugs
Posted by: gina g | December 28, 2009 at 01:42 PM
Sounds like the best Christmas ever! Such sweetness & love :)
Posted by: Jana | December 28, 2009 at 02:02 PM
Happy New Year Michelle! xo natalea
Posted by: natalea | December 31, 2009 at 04:57 PM