With my mother's death being so close to the holiday season - it is completely understandable that Christmas has not been my favorite these last couple years. The entire family dynamic has changed since 2010. For some reason - this year feels different. For the first time in a couple of years, I am totally excited for Christmas. To be honest, I might be the only one who is excited. I set up my Christmas tree before I left to go to VA Beach for Thanksgiving (unheard of! I am totally a Christmas in December kind of person). I actually went out to buy all the Christmas stuff because I didn't have a tree or anything. I tried to convince Dad that he needed to put up his tree -he didn't go for it. PLUS! I have been listening to Christmas music since the Christmas season started (please note - AFTER THANKSGIVING).
But why the "damn it!" after my title? It is because I refuse to let anyone ruin this season for me. As I stated before, the family dynamic is completely changed. I do not have the same relationships with my sisters as I had when I was younger. I am not even sure there is much of a relationship at all. I refuse to let anyone take away from me what should be one of the most joyous times of the year. So I have decided to embrace this season, with or without my family.
So here is my plan - RAs leave on Saturday/Sunday. I am on duty Sunday night - no biggie! I leave for VA Beach on the 22nd. I HAVE to experience Christmas in Nashville before I leave. This includes seeing the lights at Opry Mills, doing some holiday shopping, and maybe catching a Christmas church service somewhere. I mean someone has to be doing the Christmas story right!? Maybe even going to see the Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin this weekend.
When I get home, I will need to finish Christmas shopping - probably with a family friend by my side. Then maybe see the Christmas lights at the Ocean Front. I have never done that before. I knowwwwww - I have lived there for over 15 years and never seen them. Then Dad and I will probably go to a Christmas Eve church service, since Brittany wont be in yet and Amber is kinda anti-church right now.
Then Christmas day will come and we will celebrate! Open a bottle of wine and some presents! I hope Dad doesn't get mad when he sees what we have bought. :}
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years!!
