Day After

In case you didn't get any mail.....the magpie wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Remember to thank the fantastic police force for the work they do in helping to make the holidays safe, happy and bright for thousands of children.

A good thought to keep in mind as you heal from whatever tried to control your life.  You are blessed with a strong heart and mind and know how to take control of you.

The day after Christmas is always a 'let-down' day , not a bad day, just a day to realize that all that plotting and planning and hard work paid off with a special really merry time and now you can sit back and relax knowing that YOU made our special holiday a blessing and fun for family and friends.   The oohs, the aahs, the smiles, the tears told us a lot about being treasured and loved.   The giggles, the smiles,  told how much you are treasured.   The knock on the door, the special plate of cookies, and that tasty fruit cake you turn your nose up at....all had a special message as you received the embrace of those you love and like.   The long distance calls, the loving voices of those who could not join you on Christmas morning but let you know they were with you in spirit.   Watching the Hallmark Christmas stories were a lot of fun just because they did have happy endings.    And, the frosting on the cake was the invitation to join friends for dinner and be wined and dined in great conversations and lots of hugs.  

Christine, Patricia and I were invited to a friend's home in McCormick Woods.   A lovely area of huge homes and of course one of the best golf clubs around.   The streets are wide, the homes spectacular and the inside with very high ceilings, huge rooms, a fireplace to die for and a table set for a King.   Gifts were brought for the host and hostess and the chairs were filled with happy faces and voices.    No one was a stranger for long.    

The smell of special dishes permeating the rooms, yes, the taste buds were at the ready.   A lovely ham, escalloped potatoes, baked broccoli, a special molded salad, cranberries and rolls to die for.   The drink of your choice and all topped off with the biggest chocolate cake that you made room for even though you were already sated.   Voices became familiar although names were already lost, it just didn't matter.   The conversations were lively and the smiles welcoming as you felt welcomed and strangers no more. A lovely way to spend Christmas Day when you could not be  with family and old friends.

Hearing granddaughter Erin's voice on the telephone from Hawaii was a special treat.  She sounded healthy and happy although she plans to be 'home' next holiday season.    We will see her May and that is something we are really looking forward to.

The only complaint I had, yes, there is always something to complain about. . . was little or no Christmas music this year.   I miss the old songs and the Christmas carols.   I heard a few jazzed ones on the radio which I didn't care for...don't need the carols jazzed up.   Some things are much to sacred and beautiful to change . . .  maybe each generation will carry on the traditions of the old times, they really were worth while.    I was gifted with a radio which I have sorely missed.   I will find my station and my music and be content.    Humming and singing makes our world go round and I intend to do a lot of it from here on in.    So if you come this way bring your vocal cords along as I will have some music to hum to.  

I thought of each and every one of you and prayed that your Christmas was merry and bright, filled with love and laughter.    I hope it was and  hoped that smiles were your umbrella if you had rain drops in your life.     Share YOU with those you love and like.   Remember no good deed is lost as you tread your way through life reaching out to make someone happy.  What goes around comes around...and think of the joy you receive on the other end.    Breathe deep as there is another holiday on the way....get ready for a brand new year......meanwhile finish up the old one with lots of hugs and kisses;  send a few this way.  Hugs to all.