Catch-Up, Part 1

A few thoughts from my journal dated Dec 25th..

There’s a magical feeling to Christmas Day that really is unique and impossible to recreate on any other day. It’s like a secret feeling that you’re only privy to one day a year, and when you get it, you can remember exactly what it felt like on Christmas Day last year, or the year before, or 15 years ago, or when you were 10.
If only we could get that feeling more often. But then, would it be so special?

We had a great time with Ted and Beryl. Even though we haven't seen their family since last year, they all greeted us cheerfully and there were hugs and salutations all round. And lots and lots of wine. And food. And games. And just general Christmassy cheerfulness that made me realize how much we missed out on as children, and made me thankful for the relationship we now have with Ted and Beryl and their family. Simon, their youngest son, cornered me in the kitchen at one point and thanked me for everything I'd done this year. I said I couldn't really think of anything I had done, but he said that my friendship and constant concern has been important to both of them throughout this year, and it's been a big help to the family to know that we're living 'across the road' and keeping an eye on them. I was very touched, and to be honest, very moved.

RC 10-1-10