merry merry.

i was sick as a dog and bedridden
before, during and after
Christmas.

it was rotten.

i missed everything, really.

but if i had to be sick, it sure was nice to be at home where
my mama and sisters were taking care of me.
 . . .
when i got home on thursday, before i became cruddy on friday, it sure was
special to come home to our house dressed up so perfectly.
 

it was dusk and quiet.
chilly, with a sunset that could bring you to tears.
bango and ukulele strings soared through the air
welcome home, indeed.

on Christmas night

they all played outside in the snow while i stayed inside
and groaned
and thought i may die.
but they did get me outside for one sister picture in the snow.

i was jealous. super jealous.

they were skipping and sliding through the yard, taking pictures, acting like fools.

...while i formed an addiction to cough drops and chloraseptic spray, later resulting in a trip to urgent care, prescribed drugs and a well deserved two day turn around

i missed our extended family "souper christmas"

but they played fun games, ate good soup and 

payed it forward

to a less fortunate family.

the best gift we could give to them

and ourselves.

. . .

so i pretty much missed Christmas 2010, but I rest easy and reassured, knowing I'm validated year after year...
through this 20+ year old homemade sunday school ornament that says it all:

whew.

hope your holiday was merry.