The Golden Girls ran for seven years and there were only a couple of episodes about Christmas. I especially liked the one where the girls are going home for the holidays. It never really rang true to me until a few years ago when I moved from my hometown.

Although I loved living near my family for most of my life, it’s a little exciting to “go home” for Christmas.  There is just something about loading up the car and going to see my family.

I love the Christmas season. I don’t decorate like I used too. I used to set up multiple trees, decorate the kitchen and bathrooms. I would adorn the outside with lights, a blow up penguin, set candles in every window  and wreaths on every door. I am not really sure what the penguin had to do with Christmas, but I think I got him at an after Christmas sale and he just became part of the decorations.  Now there is no tree, no lights and the penguin sits in a box in the attic. I haven’t become a Scrooge, but with us traveling to see family it just isn’t worth the effort. I put up a tree last year and a total of 2 people saw it. This year I do have little decorations around. I did decorate the bathroom, have out my favorite nativity scene, and wreaths on each door.  I suppose my point here is that I decorate for others to enjoy. I am sure that my husband enjoys the snowmen hand towels in spite of the fact that he is not allowed to touch them!

As I have grown older I have come to appreciate the spirit of Christmas more and more. It isn’t about the decorations or the presents. It is about the birth of Christ and what his life means in ours. I imagine the joy that Mary had knowing, yet not fully understanding that she had given birth to the Son of God. I have no idea the weight of that, but as a mother I do know that the love for a child is greater than anything. Children are a gift from God, our greatest presents. I know that I often brag on my children, as most parents do. Mine are not perfect, but they make me so proud. I thank God everyday for the gift of their love.

This Christmas season as I prepare to “go home” to see my family I have reflected on what home really is. It’s not only a place on the map, but it’s a place in my heart. When I think of it, I don’t think of locations, I think of people. Home is a place that is comfortable, a place where you feel welcome and are able to be yourself. I have traveled a lot the past four years tagging along with my husband’s job. We have been able to make “home” just about anywhere. Whether it be a small apartment in Texas or a hotel room in Oklahoma, it always feel like home just because we are together.

I wish each of you a Joyous Holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Festivus (had to throw that one in for fun!)  As you gather with family or friends, whether it be a group of three or thirty, know that you are home when you have those that you cherish the most surrounding you.  In the words of Timothy Cratchit, “God Bless Us Every One.”

Until Next Time… Thank You For Being a Friend

MLG