From Thanksgiving to Christmas, how many times were you asked, “Are you ready for the holidays?” I was dreading the days between November 16 (Dad’s birthday) and Christmas because of all the “firsts.” First birthday without dad; first Thanksgiving and Christmas without Dad and Bobby. I kept remembering that last year at this time, we had spent several weekends in a row with Bobby and Ali while he was in treatment in Reno. We had hope!
I pictured “the holidays” like a raging river that I had to cross. The water was treacherous, dark and muddy. However, after the first of the year, I looked back and realized that the river was really a gentle flowing stream. God had placed rocks strategically in the stream for me to use to cross. Here I was, safely on the other side; the raging river was gone.
I am happy that you made it to the other side, sweet friend. Holidays will never quite be the same, but loving those around you and focusing on them while honoring the memory of those we lost makes it a bit easier. xoxo