This picture was from last year. Everyone was home and we were able to celebrate as a family.

Stephen’s work schedule (and now that he has moved out) it is harder to see him. When we spoke about it last night, he wasn’t sure that he would be able to come by to celebrate Christmas until New Year’s Day.

It’s hard for those who work in the holidays to be able to spend time with family and friends. I don’t normally think about those that are working when I shop or eat out until I have someone close to me that is going through it.

Holidays are not always a happy time for most. It is stressful and typically has disappointments from unmet expectations. When the kids were small, they shared the holiday with my ex husband. I really didn’t want to even have a tree up if they weren’t home but I knew that when they did get home they would want it. Being separated from loved ones over a holiday is so very difficult.

All of this to say, hug your loved ones. Enjoy the moments you are able to have with one another, and remember the greatest gift.

Blessings.