Well I must confess that I was mistaken about this post. I *thought* it was supposed to be about our favorite holiday decoration, so I spent some time looking for pictures of my favorite holiday decoration through the years. Guess what? No pictures! What I discovered was that while I had plenty of family fun pictures, I had very few decoration pics. It was a happy mistake, however. Oh my, was going back through those photos fun, if a bit nostalgic.
Changes upon changes in recent years (don’t we all know about those) have changed the way we celebrate and the huge family gatherings of the last decade are simply no longer possible. And while I miss the joy and the togetherness, by going through the pics I discovered that the love is something that continues and every laugh, silly moment and, yes, even every selfie leaves sustaining echoes–joy that is then carried through no matter where and with whom the holiday is celebrated.
I couldn’t have actually written the post I was supposed to write (sharing my holiday decorations) because they aren’t done yet (!) but I’m glad I made the mistake, because as I decorate, images of Christmas past will be in my mind, adding to my joy.
Want to read about my fellow writers’ holiday decor?
Novels with Romantic Elements – Jean Willett | Paranormal writers – Kay Hudson | Contemporary romance writers – Priscilla Oliveras – Tammy Baumann Romantic suspense writer Sharon Wray |
What a lovely post, Wendy! I’m glad you got yours up today too. But I have to admit that the day the large family celebrations are no longer possible will be a day of mourning for me. I loved your photos and glad searching for them brightened your day. 🙂
Thank you, Sharon! I mourned a bit the first two years away from my sisters and will always light candles for those who have passed on, but my dominant feelings yesterday & today were gratitude for the time, the space, the willingness to gather, & the love that brought me so many wonderful memories for so many years. There is a wonderful, secure knowledge that comes with nostalgia. I’ll carry that love with me no matter what happens.
These are such fun photos, Wendy! It’s easy to see how much you enjoy your family by the expressions on your face! These family pictures warmed my heart!
Happy Holidays to you and your family!!!
Oh yay for warm hearts!! Thank you, Tammy. 🙂
Wonderful pictures, Wendy! Even without knowing the people, I can see all the love and great memories.
Thanks so much for visiting, Kay! I appreciated your post so much!