Christmas, Rounds 2 & 3

This past Sunday was my grandma's Christmas.  My uncle came into town from Maryland like he does every year.  As always, it was a good time.  I was surprised, however, that no one really conversed with me like they usually do.  I guess it was because no one knew what to talk about and didn't really want to talk about the divorce.  It seems like that is the topic du jour around me.  Many want to know when it will be final, but the process has hardly begun.

So, the Pinnochle cards came out as is the annual tradition and we ate.  Both good things.  Grandma did ask what my ex-to-be is getting me for Christmas and, in my best "5 golden rings" voice, I sang, "a lower credit score."  She laughed, which many people are not doing these days when the topic comes up.

Round 2 - no major changes.  Looking forward to next year's gathering.

Round 3 occurs today.  Christmas Eve!  In year's past, we celebrated with my husband's family.  The kids will do just that again this year.  I, however, am eager to start my own new tradition, but am being hampered by family who are worried about me.  They do not want me spending Christmas Eve alone.  What they don't seem to understand is that I am not alone.  The good Lord and my guardian angels are with me all the time.  (Yes, I believe I have more than one.)  The love of my family is with me always.  I carry each and every one of them in my heart on a daily basis.  And I have a great friend who hosts a Christmas Eve brunch every year.  Keep me on the invites list, please!

However, I know this is not an easy journey for them, either, so I am doing as they ask.  I will start my own traditions next year. 

For now, the kids and I are beginning our new tradition of my giving them 3 gifts of the Magi...Thanks a million K for the idea!
1.  Something that inspires.
2.  Something to treasure.
3.  Something to comfort (warmth, security, the comfort need of the moment).

I am very excited to begin this new tradition.  Each of these gifts holds a special meaning for each of them (I think!) and we will exchange them this morning before they leave for his family's celebration.  We already bought our Christmas pyjamas, also a new tradition.   Each of us picked out what we wanted and we'll wear them tonight as we slumber and await Santa's arrival.  Hopefully, everyone will be slumbering!

So, as Round 3 awakens and begins its day, I wish each and every one of you, even the demon, a very Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year.  Everyone deserves to have the joy of the season in their hearts.