Oh Little Christmas Tree, Will Jack Pee on Thee?

The last time I wrote in my blog, I was wrapped up in a blanket of depression. Thanksgiving was calm, just Dad and I, but I was depressed that my kids and grandkids weren’t with us just like every holiday for the last 8 years. We were able to have lunch out the Saturday following Thanksgiving with my son, his wife, and my newest grandbaby, though. That helped my mood and I have tried very hard ever since to have a little more holiday cheer.

I really despise Christmas. I was never crazy about the concept but always made memories with my kids when they were growing up. Following old family traditions and creating a few of my own, we always had a good time. I’m not a religious person, nor will I ever be, but my kids were taught that the reason we celebrate Christmas is Jesus. Funny though, December 25th isn’t even the correct birthdate, but I digress.

Christmas has become so commercialized that it just sucks the life out of me. People have become so greedy and they’ve raised their kids to be greedy little monsters, too. Not all, but I’m sure you know the ones. This year I have done all of my shopping online. Why go out and deal with the greed, crowds, and noise? I’m keeping everything small and simple this year. Just a few gifts, some homemade, some store bought will be placed around a 2 ft. tree (ordered online) on my kitchen table draped with a purple tablecloth. The tree will have a few purple lights to make it more festive but the large white tree and all of my ornaments and decor will stay in storage. I just don’t have the energy for that much hoopla. Especially since the house won’t be full of kids and grandkids, maybe just my son and his little family, or maybe…just cats….which leaves me with the thought, will Jack pee on my little tree? He’s the only cat that goes outside and he’s been neutered, but I have seen him mark his territory outside on trees, my car, the side of the house, etc. I’ll let you know how my little tree fares. As for Christmas eats… I will try my damnedest to do my traditional Christmas Eve pizza, pizza balls, and popcorn cake, all homemade. Christmas Day dinner will include ham and not sure what else yet, but lots of goodies for snacking. (Isn’t that the best part anyway?) Keep your fingers crossed that my pain level stays…well, level with no spikes for at least that week of Christmas.

I’m taking a break (for the most part) from social media and blogging. I want to change the look of my blog, so I hope to do a little work on it during the next few weeks. I will leave you now with a few Christmas funnies (since I’ve missed the last 2 weeks of Friday’s Funnies) and who knows, I may just have another installment of these before Christmas! Enjoy!

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Have a great week, everyone!

Lost In Sadness

I’ve got a lot to say but these days, but it’s difficult to put it in writing. My mind is in overdrive and I can’t seem to concentrate.

My relationship with my daughter is strained, and I’m feeling….lost. How do you resolve an issue when the other person won’t speak to you? Sad thoughts fill my head daily. In hindsight, I think things could have been handled differently. At the time though, it was the only thing to do. I was put in an awkward position and I had to make a decision. Now, it seems like I have lost my daughter and the relationship I was growing with my grand son, one of the most important little people in my life…..

An invitation to Thanksgiving dinner and the desire to put the past in the past was not enough. I sat and waited for a phone call, a text or any indication that peace could be made. Nothing. Disappointment. Sadness. The everlasting urge to cry lingers. Do I stop hoping? Do I give up? How can I?

I’ve not seen or heard from them in over 2 months. I tell myself to be patient, that there is light at the end of the tunnel. But is there? I guess I wait……

Giving Thanks

This time of year, most people are planning their Thanksgiving dinners. Some folks head out to spend a few days with relatives. Some folks stay home and prepare the big meal for family and friends.  My family and I are staying home, wishing that my sisters and their families could be here. No matter where we’re going or who we’re with, we’re giving thanks for all we have and those we love. Of course, we shouldn’t wait until Thanksgiving to give thanks. We need to slow down and appreciate our lives, our loved ones and all the little things that we many times take for granted. What are you thankful for?

I’m thankful for…..

*My family, who have always been there for me.
*My father, who is my best friend.
*My children, and that they are safe and healthy.
*My grandchildren, who are beautiful, healthy and light up my life.
*My friends, who are always there to listen and give helpful advice or lend a shoulder for me to cry on.
*My health, although it isn’t the greatest at this moment. I’m alive and still able to take care of myself.
*The food on our table every single day. Some people aren’t that lucky.
*A roof over my head, even though it leaks a little.
*A bed to snuggle up in, to keep warm on these cold winter nights.
*The clothes I wear, although not very stylish or extravagant. I’m comfortable.
*My furbabies, who are every bit a part of my family as my children and grandchildren.
*The warmth of the sun on my face when I step outside.
*My ears that enable me to hear babies laughing, kittens purring and beautiful music.
*My eyes, to see my children and grandchildren, flowers blooming, kittens playing and the ability to drive my car!

There are so many things to be thankful for, although sometimes things aren’t always what I wish them to be. I’m so thankful to be alive and experiencing this life with the people closest to my heart.

Happy Thanksgiving All!
Be safe and thankful…..