In the Spirit
Christmas isn’t much of a celebrated holiday in my little world.
It definitely used to be — my mom would deck the house, bake cookies, play all the music, getting everyone else in the spirit (even though Christmas wasn’t really her favorite holiday, she wanted to make it our favorite).
Then, 8 years ago, my mom lost her battle to cancer on Christmas morning. She fought like a champ for 9 solid months.
We tried to go through the motions that day – I made pot roast, we sort of opened gifts, but in the middle of calling relatives and planning my mom’s funeral, Christmas just wasn’t.
And it really hasn’t been the same since.
I stopped going home to visit family for the holidays, opting instead to spend it with other families or not even at all (one year I ‘skipped’ Christmas altogether and went on a road trip to Florida).
This year, I was determined to make a change. I threw myself into the Christmas spirit, beginning the day after Thanksgiving.
I accompanied a new friend on a Black Friday shopping trip (really just for the adventure of it…we left at 1 a.m. and returned at 8:30 a.m.).
I got a live tree for the first time ever and had so much fun decorating it.
I hosted a holiday housewarming party, and shared the spirit with friends.
I played Christmas music EVERY. DAY. in my sweet little house.
I went on a trip to NYC with some of my favorite ladies so we could see the Rockefeller Center tree and delight in all magical holiday things.
I even purchased a few Christmas gifts (not really my thing…but it was fun finding silly things people might like).
And, more true to my form, handed out homemade grape jelly to lots of people I love.
Tomorrow, I’m heading to PA to visit my family. This will be the first time we’ve all been together for Christmas, just us, since the day my mom died.
I want to thank everyone who has helped me get into the spirit this year. It feels nice, celebrating the season. I cherish the people in my world, especially after the whirlwind year I’ve had. Happiest of Holidays to you and your loved ones.
Aundra – That is so beautifully written! I cried when I read your post. Your mother would be so proud of the woman you have become. You truly are a kind, caring, energetic young woman who is beautiful inside & out. I am so happy to be spending some of the Christmas holiday with you!
Oh my. I have tears in my eyes, too. I’m reading this a couple of days after Christmas, but the sentiment isn’t any less poignant. Wow. I, too, rejoice with you, as you have celebrated this Christmas! And I say, “Ditto,” to Vickie’s post. And even though I didn’t know your mom, I can hear her words now, bragging on her little girl who has grown up to bless so many. Truly, you rock, Aundra Weissert.
My sweet friend…I know what it is like to lose someone close near a celebrated day (my sister passed away 4 days after my bday almost 19 years ago) and how it truly alters that day. It sounds like much healing has happened in your heart this year and for that I am so happy for you. Thank u for sharing this and I wish you a wonderful day with your loved ones.
Aundra, I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope you are able to find peace and joy with your family this Christmas.