Christmas Day

You might wonder why I’m compulsively blogging these last few days. Partly, because even though it’s a totally one sided conversation, I feel I have to speak somehow or go crazy—the aloneness is starting to wear a little. Partially it’s because I’m going to so much effort to keep my family’s traditions, and I feel like there has to be some kind of record out there to prove that I didn’t give in! And partially, it’s because blogging means that I’m not doing school work, so it’s a declaration of holiday. So, more blog!

This morning I slept in a bit as I was up pretty late last night. I was up late partially because I was watching another episode of Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell with my family. So far we love Norrell, Childermass and Stephen, but think the Gentlemen needs more fairy charm. While he was dangerous and sinister, he was also whimsical and charming in his dangerous amorality.

I was also up late because I was playing and singing Christmas carols since (intentionally in deference to the carol hating person on station or not) we have not sung any Christmas carols together that I know of since the kids left, and I’m sorry, there MUST be carols sung on Christmas Eve! Also, as is tradition for me ever since my senior year of university when I took music history, I listened to both the Renaissance and the modern version of “O Magnum Mysterium” by candle light. Pausing to listen to the divine music and reflect on the greatest of mysteries is a nice way to end an often busy day.

I made my family’s famous breakfast casserole, and Beth’s apple cider. Yes, that is the TARDIS holding the spices!

I enjoyed watching The Muppet Christmas Carol while eating my brunch, and then I opened the gifts from my family that had arrived on time. Seeing their love in the things they chose for me was so special, and also made me miss them more! I had an adorable cat in a bag,

and I finished my SHIELD ornament.

I took a nap this afternoon, processed 6 cups of mangoes, listened to my Christmas Day pick,

and then went over to the Ronald’s for a light supper and some games. All in all a pleasant day; of course I would rather have been with my family, but all in all today was a good day. And in this year... that is something. Merry Christmas wherever you are, and may this time of light and love refresh you for the new year ahead.