Cherished Gifts

We've joined the rat race, and we'll probably not apologize for spending money on stuff to be wrapped and opened and admired. 

Yes, we have bought into the commercial aspect of Christmas where some of our gifts will bring laughs, some warmth, some hours of entertainment and, of course, the annual gifts of reminding us what day it is.  

Calendars are nice, especially when they're personalized to suit the giftee.  I've chosen a few that will not only remind their recipients of what day it is,  but they will also elicit a chuckle or two.

However we individually approach the Christmas season, one constant always seems to stand out: the gifts that come to us without wrapping paper or money spent are the best.

Often, they are God given, and that is what makes them so valuable and cherished, and that is why Christmas does work for many of us every year, whether or not we're the very best or even slightly mediocre at practicing our respective brands of faith. 

The season does bring our lives into perspective, and, in my case, I do "get it" about the importance of loved ones---be they two or four-legged---of valued friends and neighbors, of the beauty I witness on a daily basis and on the goodness that far outweighs the evil in our society but seldom earns the headlines. 

And, there are the moments!

As I look back on this past year, I could scroll forever the moments that have moved me to tears or to total breath-taking exhilaration.

The beauty of my mother's memorial service at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in July where a loving, adoring family gathered to bid a much beloved matriarch "good bye."  That truly stands out among my personal montage---words spoken, lyrics sung, hugs, tears.

Nothing in this year's picture show will trump that beautiful July day and the care taken by so many as our family mourned. 

I cannot go on without mentioning the day because it was the singular event of our year, one which will go with us forever. 

Moments spent on road trips, at horse shows, on family hikes, with friends at lunch or at special celebrations, at the new pumpkin patch affair at the Hickey farm, romps with dogs or harmonica concerts with special friends or standing in the yard admiring the brilliant craftsmanship of our friend Amos or geocaching adventures both near and far or just plain walking down a country road and breathing in the beauty.

Yup, those are gifts to be cherished.

On this day before Christmas, I wish to all my readers, family and friends a treasure chest full of your own cherished gifts.  

And, do have fun tearing the wrapping paper off those presents under the tree.  That's a lot of fun too.

Blessings to all for a beautiful day and for many beautiful days to follow.