Less than five hours, friends. I returned from Green Bay/Sault Ste. Marie (my hometown) earlier this afternoon. It is fitting that I picked this past weekend to see the Packers play the Dolphins. For the first time ever, I won't be returning home for Christmas. I will be going with Kim to Cornwall to celebrate with her family.
Most importantly, this will be my first Christmas Season without my reason for loving the Season. My grandmother, who passed away last December 21st, will not be around to celebrate the joys of the Season. I'll be the first to admit that celebrating with her over the past five or six years in her retirement home was difficult, but she kept the Spirit alive by constantly cracking grandmotherly jokes and constantly giggling at my stories - or that of her own.
My grandmother and grandfather (he passed away 13 years ago) are the reason that I love Christmas. They would constantly go all out with gifts and decorations. My fondest Christmas memories are visiting them during the Season and running into their bedroom to count all the presents on their nightstands. It looked like Santa's toy shop in the North Pole!
Now, I think about those memories and they always bring a smile to my face. Now, I think more closely about those memories and consider that it wasn't the presents that I truly enjoyed about those times, it was the childhood amazement of the vintage ornaments, classic Santa train that went around the tree, and of course, the coloured lights that sang 12 songs while singing and dancing to the music.
Those memories may be that now - thoughts of the past - but at least I have those lights. Each and every year, I plug them in and let them play through at least once. Each and every year, I let out a cry because I miss my grandfather so much. This year, it will be most difficult because my grandmother is no longer here, too. This year, however, I think I will find some peace and solace knowing that they are together watching their Christmas memories live on in my home and my childlike wonder still exists.
I wish they were here, but I know they are together and making another magical season wherever they may be.