Christmas and other winter thoughts

Christmas is almost here, and this has been a different Christmas season than I have ever experienced. It just proves that life is ever-changing and we need to appreciate every day, every person, and literally every moment. Before Thanksgiving we discovered that my mom had symptoms that needed a physician's attention. We had no idea that she was suffering from a mass--and drainage from that breast mass...I thought it was diabetes, colitis, or another digestive issue. Something that I have come to accept, and we all to come to terms with is that mom didn't seek medical treatment in the beginning two-and-one half years ago when she first noticed something was not right with her body. We can't understand her choices, but now the only thing we can do is unconditionally love her, and accept her, and remember the good things we have experienced because of having her as our mother and grandmother.

I am sad, but I know that I need to "buck up" and make this Christmas a meaningful one, put my own feelings aside, and think of everyone in the family. At this time, more than ever our eyes have to be on Jesus and the reason for this Christmas season.

I love my Christmas present--Soca Stream. My whole life I've loved the fizzy stuff. I was a little disappointed to find out that the Cola syrup from Soda Stream had Splenda. I remember having symptoms of MS when I finally decided to cut Splenda out of my life a couple years ago. Last night I found some cola and root beer syrup on the Williams Sonoma website that is supposed to be like the colas of my youth--when it was made with cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup. Can't wait to try that. In fact, I never even considered Williams Sonoma had a website. This will be a fun venture!

Tom has been home sick the last few days, and the t.v. has been going nonstop--and blaring loud, in fact. I told Tom that hearing the t.v. has never been one of my favorite things to do, even when I am sick, and he said he has nothing else to do! Reminds me of a 13-year old boy. How is it that I can ALWAYS find something to do? There are things to clean,things to organize, things to read, things to love!@#$%&^ Men...such funny creatures. If this is a preview of retirement, I think he better stay working, even if it's flipping hamburgers.

The coffee is yummy this morning, especially out of my Christmas coffee cup. This is my favorite time of the year. People Magazine had an article about Jessica Simpson releasing a new Christmas album. I can't wait to get it. The mood, the songs, the decorations, the lights, the hope, the promise---daily reminders that Jesus was born to be our Saviour. Jesus, I RECEIVE!You are the greatest gift of all from our loving Father.I'm expecting miracles this season. I feel it... It's one thing to have it in your head, but when it moves to your heart, watch out! Christmas blessings abound...