christmas day

Christmas day was good.

We were alone for the day, but not alone either.

I fixed breakfast of cornbread and granola from one of our daughters, we lazed around, opened out presents and enjoyed each others company.

Then we went to see Jim. There was a dinner scheduled at his son’s house and Jim was too weak and tired to go. Dot wanted to go, so I offered for us to stay with Jim while Dot went to the family dinner.

We stayed a couple of hours until Jim’s baby brother came by to take over.

Earlier I had accepted an invite to friends house for dinner, even though I really wanted to be alone with Miriam. I was going to try to get out of the invite, but Jim told me go, so we went.

We had a good meal and a good time. I am glad we went.

But somewhere alone during the day or evening, I was struck quietly and silently by the silence of being alone. We are an artist family and we don’t mind spending huge quantities of time alone, but this time it was different.

I suddenly wanted to hug a grandchild or three, to feel the love of my beautiful daughters, to hug a son in law. It was good, and so lonely at the same time.

That mood didn’t last too long, but it cut deep for a tiny bit.

Dear family: I love you and I bask in your love. Thanks for being such a wonderful family.