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A handwritten note

Ten days ago, I decided to celebrate the 13 days of my birthday after buying myself tickets to the upcoming Eric Clapton concert. In the days that followed the celebration of days included a free car wash, conversation with vets, a gift card from work, and a gift of Goodwill. Then the horrific school shooting happened in CT. I stopped celebrating the day of my upcoming birthday. Instead of finding what was good in my world, the negative seemed to be highlighted. The repairman was having difficulty getting our hot water heater working (three days later, still no hot water). No contact with Sean since before Thanksgiving. The stress that family can sometimes bring. Learning our landlord was still battling breast cancer and financial stress that came about as a result. The repairman going home to find his roommate dead. Throughout all of it, the 27 teachers and students of Spring Hope Elementary School in my mind. Heating water to take my bath out of a sink is nothing to the grief they are experiencing. Yet, even in sad times there is cause for celebration.

Today, I celebrate with my children. A day set aside for Christmas shopping that turned into so much more.

Thanksgiving week, Sana and I made a trip to DMV. She was in hopes of bringing home her driver's permit, while my goal was a motorcycle license. I couldn't fully celebrate the updated license in my wallet knowing Sana wasn't able to try for her permit. (She was missing a piece of paperwork.) We went back today. Not only did she get her permit, she also preregistered to vote. Cause for celebration for sure.

Our day continued with lunch with my two girls. Patti's choice of California Pizza hit the spot. Smiles throughout lunch as they talked about school, friends, and fun. Giggling, they ran off to do some Christmas shopping, while I stayed to pay the bill. Two sisters bonding in the secrecy of surprises as they wandered the mall. A celebration in the bond of sisterhood.

Patti's room became the place to congregate as she wrapped presents as we closed our eyes when our presents came out. She wrapped while the rest of us hunted for the elusive pieces to her puzzle and made very little progress. So excited to see our reactions to her gifts, she had me open one a few days early. A celebration in the joy the simple act of giving.


Last year, Sean didn't come home for Christmas. Instead, he served on an honor guard to say goodbye to fallen veterans. This year, he will be in Afghanistan. A gift from Sean through A Full Circle Home. Tissues, a bracelet, Mary Kay products, and other odds and ends filled the box. The most precious gift found on a card. A hand-written note from Sean. My heart leaking out my eyes, I felt Sean's presence as I read the note. He will be home for Christmas this year after all. 

hey mom  I'm missing
you. Share my love with
Everyone you can this
Christmas, and remember
I love you forever
I like you for always
As long as I'm living my mother you'll be

Today, I celebrate my children.

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