As I type this post, it is slightly after midnight, December 26.
I am enjoying a late evening burger and reflecting on the day that’s preceded me.
Deep in thought. Side note: Garlic aioli is mighty good on a burger.
The holidays this year were a bit off kilter for a variety of reasons.
Thanksgiving was just…off. I don’t even know how to describe it, really. It wasn’t bad, mind you. Just off. 😄
Yesterday was off as well, but in a different way.
The thing that was off this year was that the family was quite splintered for the first time in a very long time.
Making the rounds…
My aunt usually hosts the holiday gathering, but she is recovering from surgery this year and couldn’t do it, and she also had no desire to go anywhere in her current condition.
My daughter chose to spend the holiday elsewhere this year for personal reasons, which I was totally fine with. Nothing bad, just not a reason I wish to disclose.
With my aunt out of commission for the moment, my mom and step-dad stayed home this year, so I went and had dinner with them.
My day consisted of making the rounds, dropping my kid off at her chosen locale, going to visit my aunt and then finally, off to Mom’s.
When I got there, I learned that my step-dad took a nasty fall in the morning and got pretty banged up. Not really the ideal Christmas gift. He’s ok right now, but the circumstances that led to the fall are a bit concerning, so there will be some follow ups for him on that.
Needless to say, all that got me to thinking a bit.
Contemplative mode: Activate.
I can start with the “duh” moment that folks won’t be around in your life forever, so appreciate them and the moments together while you can. You never know when life is going to hit you with a curveball.
I also had the thought that I am quite grateful I have the ability to make the rounds and see everyone. While it wasn’t the family norm, it was still good to be able to see them.
While this Christmas was a bit different from the usual, it also isn’t the worst one I have ever had, so all in all, I call it a win.
Hopefully, in 2025, the family can heal, feel better and be together like normal again.
I hope you all had a joyous Christmas, and I hope as this year comes to a close, you can look back on it and appreciate the good things that crossed your path.
Peace, all.
The Beginning At Last 
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