Merry Christmas!

I hope this year’s celebration was enjoyable, even if it had to be modified for the pandemic and all of the many circumstances that marked the year 2020.

Since my in-laws live next door, they are a part of our quarantine cluster, so the morning was spent per usual for Christmas: breakfast and present opening with them.

Speaking of gifts, I’m writing this on my new gadget: a Chromebook! I’m still trying to figure this out, but I’m getting there. 

New this year: my family and I had a Zoom call, complete with my brother and his family, my parents, and their new kitty, Lacey. They all live about an hour or so away, and my dad is especially vulnerable to the virus, so no big gathering this year. Even though I did visit in person a couple of weeks ago to deliver Lacey, another real visit will likely not happen again until I’m fully vaccinated.

Another tradition for me since 2013 is going for a run on Christmas day! This year’s run was a 5k, keeping my running streak going that began on Thanksgiving day.  

The holiday season holds lots of mixed emotions for so many. Grief may occupy space for those of you experiencing your first without a loved one. For others, you may be celebrating the first with a new family member. I’m sure many have altered plans due to the pandemic and feel a bit lonely. Still others may feel conflicted by their spirituality. But whatever mixed bag of feelings you may own, I hope there is some joy there this year. 

To all who celebrate, have a merry Christmas!

Peace and love to all. As always, I hope you all are safe and healthy.