If it's been a particularly magical year, I can usually hear Santa's sleigh bells around midnight.
If it's been an odd one - like this year - Christmas Eve is no different.
Along with thousands of travelers stranded all over Europe, I will not get to be with my family this Christmas. Due to changed plans and odd circumstances, none of my closest family members sent gifts - Nor have they received mine! None of my closest friends were available during my personal 48 hour New Year-Christmas Marathon.
But I do have gifts for Christmas!
Not under my non-existent tree, but on my piano and next to my computer.
One of the lovely gifts I received is the glittery tree ornament in the photo.
"Love"
it says,
and that is the key to everything Christmas, isn't it?.
The FIRST gift I received, was dinner for two, from a new-friend of mine, who is also Muslim. ( Seriously, How Cool Is That?) It's been followed by meals, parties and goodies from new and old friends, in totally unexpected ways!
And I do have friends for Christmas!
Old friends before the day, and new friends on the day. This is the reverse of what normally happens, and I am delighted with the surprise!
Without Tamales and Trees, without Daughters and Doings, Christmas has come, anyway.
The Baby Jesus and Mary the Matryoshka sit next to my computer, heralding Peace, Joy and a tiny bit of Whimsy.
And I am so glad and grateful to be in my own home, and not stranded at an airport. I am so happy to be getting to know my old friends better, and making new friends as well.
Christmas Day will begin my New year.
If the gifts and activities on Christmas Day are any indicator -(and they usually are)- it looks like this year will be a pure adventure in Friendships and Whimsy.
I wish the Very Best Surprises
that God has planned for You
This Christmas,
and in the year ahead.
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