The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

This past week was a very busy one for many Brackettville residents, myself included. Just about every day, there were events that gave everyone a chance to get out of their homes and get into the Christmas spirit. Even as the temperature dropped, it was hard not to look forward to all of the joy and happiness that comes with this time of year.

On Friday, I attended the Fort Clark Historical Society’s Christmas Open House. The Palisado building was beautifully decorated, and a table full of food was the centerpiece, and of course, the food was excellent. Aside from all of this, it was nice to see so many of my dear friends gathered in one place. Everyone was so warm and welcoming and festive.

The next day, my women’s group met at the First Baptist Church for our ugly sweater party and white elephant exchange. Again, amid the backdrop of a beautifully decorated room, more of my dear friends and I were able to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Along with the aroma of the wonderful food, laughter filled the room.

Following these events, I’ve been on a high. Although I’ve been listening to Christmas music since early November, it’s good to know that I am not alone in anticipating all of the events that have been taking place because I have seen that many of my friends and relatives put up their trees before our first cold front. This time of year brings out the kid in many of us. We become filled with the spirit of giving. We know that we are at our best when we are kind and helpful. It seems that everyone is giving away free hugs and smiles.

This all reminds me of my childhood. Growing up, we didn’t have a lot. Most of the time, we really only had each other. My parents always worked hard to provide for me and my siblings. Even though we knew that they couldn’t afford the most expensive toys, we knew that the holiday season was a time for us to focus on our love for each other. We were able to slow down a little and take stock of how lucky we were to be together.

At this time of year, I, especially, miss my mom. She passed away on December 23, 2011. She was looking forward to Christmas right before she died. Christmas 2011 was very difficult. Everyone missed her so much, but we knew that she wouldn’t have wanted for us to mourn for too long, so the next year, we made sure to honor her memory by celebrating Christmas, even though we missed, and continue to miss, her so much. 

What makes this time so special for me is that it is filled with all of the memories that I have gathered during my time on this earth. While I do have some sad moments, like the loss of my mother, those are outnumbered by the happy moments that I’ve collected. This time of year brings with it love, hope, joy, magic, and miracles.
Note: This blog was published as an article in the 12/16/16 edition of the Kinney County Post.