remembering christmas
Each year when we unpack the ornaments, there are glimpses of Christmases past when the girls were little. It gets harder and harder to sharpen those memories, layered so deeply, and I will always miss those babies in my lap, thrilled, exhausted, recharging for the next round.
Christmas week goes by so fast- the whirl of it all is a little dizzying, too wonderful and vast to view at once. Like the big bear hugs my dad used to give us, the holiday seems to wrap itself tighter and tighter around us until we're ready to dissolve with joy. As the girls get older, it's no longer about Santa and his toys, but the gifts are even more important in the sweetest way. Each has become a master Santa trying to divine the best secret gift for her sister, boyfriend or parent. The thoughtfulness and love that goes into their choices for each other - and for us- is just amazing, so creative and adorable. I think being part of that dear and generous affection is the best gift - only outdone by the gift of time. The hanging out, just being together, jammed into the too-small couch, squeezed around the tiny kitchen table or hovering near the magic stove. It's crowded and cozy in here, elbow-to-elbow, so merry and bright. Nothing more to wish for. It's all right here. This. is. it.
Celebrating family is the happiest way to end a year and then to begin a new one too. From our house to yours, wishing the same for each of you. xoC
looks like you guys had a great christmas!
love the ornaments,
happy new years!
jessi
Posted by:jessi nagy | December 30, 2007 at 01:16 PM
What a lovely family , have a Happy New Year !!!
xo,
Terri
Posted by:terri ventura | December 30, 2007 at 01:35 PM
It looks like your family had a wonderful Christmas. Happy New Year!
Posted by:Kerri N. | December 30, 2007 at 04:10 PM
Aren't we blessed? As my children growing up I was afraid the thrill of Christmas wouldn't be the same. It's not the same but I have to say I LOVE it! Just the joy of being together is a gift! Now we even have three little grandsons that add more joy. Charlotte have a wonderful New Year.
Best,
Kathy
Posted by:kathy | December 30, 2007 at 05:00 PM
Those are lovely sentiments. And it is such fun to see your ornaments. Have a blessed new year!
Posted by:Frivolitea | December 30, 2007 at 05:57 PM
Happy New Year and happy memories Charlotte.
Posted by:Britt-Arnhild | December 31, 2007 at 07:31 AM
I'm so glad you had a love-filled Christmas. Happy New Year!
Posted by:Stephanie Howell | December 31, 2007 at 08:20 AM
Looks like you had a great holiday. I love those little Victorian house ornaments.
Posted by:the farmers wife | December 31, 2007 at 09:37 AM
Hey Charlotte! You tell such a marvelous heartfelt tale in your post. Love it. Love to hear of your family tales, too.
Happy New Year friend!
Posted by:teresa | December 31, 2007 at 10:15 AM
Oh Charlotte. You are such a sweet soul and it is clear that you are blessed with sweetness and love around you. My family is whacky and trying to say the least and your posts are like a much needed, big warm hug to me. Thank you for your warmth and generous spirit.
Wishing you and those dear to you, much joy in 2008! Happy New Year!
Posted by:Sally | December 31, 2007 at 11:42 AM
Happy New Year Charlotte...You are one of the best things to come out of this year for me!!!! Just feel lucky to say I know you and I mean that sincerely...There's a reason everyone admires you...You are so real! Thanks for sharing your photos with us..Love, Jennifer
Posted by:jennifer Paganellli | December 31, 2007 at 12:28 PM
Thanks, Charlotte, for sharing this wonderful glimpse of your happy Christmas. Best wishes for continued joy to you and your family in the New Year!
Posted by:pamelajane | December 31, 2007 at 02:54 PM
Love the post. It is the just hanging out that is so important, and you deserve a lovely Christmas. Happy New Year, too!
Posted by:Angel Jem | January 08, 2008 at 10:28 AM