Through the Looking Glass: Merry Christmas!

It's late afternoon. My dad just left and I'm sitting here thinking about how blessed I am. We had a very quiet and peaceful Christmas day. Dad came for dinner. My wonderful husband cooked and it was delicious!

We exchanged gifts and sat around reminiscing. In February it will be five years since we lost mom. I didn't expect my dad would last very long without her, but he is part of the greatest generation and does what needs to be done. I'm so proud of him. They were 3 weeks shy of their 62nd anniversary when she went to sleep in Jesus. I'm thankful she is no longer suffering and I'm thankful for the faith that sustains us. We know this separation won't be for long. I'm so grateful to Jesus for coming to earth and giving His life so that we might enjoy eternal life with Him and our loved ones should we accept his invitation.

I only put up one tree this year. I don't remember school ever being as crazy as this year has been so far.

The ornament at the bottom center of the picture has a photo of our Fluffy. We lost him in October. We lost our 17-year-old, Schmoopy, in February. We miss them both.

Here's the gingerbread tree. I usually put up a fruit tree as well as one with coffee ornaments. Hopefully I'll get them up again next Christmas.

Even though we still have our dear little Indiana, I didn't have the heart to hang the kitty stocking. Fluffy was the only one who actually enjoyed the little treats we purchased for them all.

This morning, our precious Indiana was content to sit on a chair watching my husband cook dinner. He also likes to sit in the kitchen window and observe the finches feasting. I enjoy watching them too.

Last week I dressed the table with a linen cloth and napkins, my Lenox "Holiday" china, Waterford crystal, candlesticks and a centerpiece. About an hour before my dad arrived I started thinking about the linens and cringed at the idea of laundering and ironing them. So I took it all off and re-set the table with our everyday dishes and snowman placemats. Nobody even noticed! I will put the Christmas finery back this evening. I enjoy looking at it.

I have a nice little collection of Santas that usually adorn the free surfaces around the living area of the house, but I only set out a handful this season.