Missing Mom

I am missing Mom.

I am sure that many of you know exactly how I feel.

Christmas was her perfect holiday and it

highlighted all of her strengths.

Tons of reasons to rationalize spoiling the grand kids.

Amazing sweets and home cookin'.

A houseful of decorations; old, new, tacky, and the homemade.

Family gathering around her dining table holding hands to pray before lunch.

Thoughtful surprises to make you feel special.

A firm believer and advocate for Santa.

Someone who loved, God.

Because of her, I dive into this holiday today too, in my own style.
My traditions now blend hers and ours.
I am preparing to make mac-n-cheese and mashed potatoes with way too much butter,
and listen to a little Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers Christmas music,
in honor of her.

I prayed for comfort on the that 1st Christmas without her and my prayer was answered.

I find comfort this Christmas in seeing parts of her

 spunky attitude and loving heart reflected in me, my husband, my Dad, my sister, my children,
and those who loved her.

Of course there is a little less gluttony spoiling, and a few less tasty treats but

the love in our family continues on.
We will celebrate together and have a ton of fun, as she would want.

I am sure that she too will celebrate His birth, in Heaven.

We love and miss you Mom.
JOY to the world.

Merry Christmas to all!