blue-eyed Bing and Christmas things

It's that time of year...(I sang that by the way. Add the music in your own head as you read it. Or don't. It's up to you.) My favorite time of year. I love to decorate the tree. It's a tradition my mom and I share. The last few years it hasn't been the same, but we do what we can. In years past, I would put on some Bing Crosby, make some hot chocolate, and get to work making a tree Martha Stewart would envy. This year it was more of a "just get it done" thing.

I also love to shop. Yes, I am aware my shopping is a problem, but this is the one time of year I have a license to shop. This year we drew names. We can't afford to get everyone something, so one person buys for one person. I hate that. I want to give to everyone.

This year, for the first time we won't all be together. So if you are following along, no Bing Crosby, limited shopping, and no complete family. To add to this my birthday is this week. Used to be exciting. Now...not so much.

If I'm not careful, Christmas will lose its magic for me. I'll start focusing on all the things that are missing and thinking about all the things I wish I could do (like snow angels). Oh and let's not get started on those eHarmony commercials that just love to point out the fact that you're still single. Blast you online dating sites and your cheerful love-dovey commercials!

I have to remind myself that although Bing and hot chocolate are wonderful, they are not what Christmas is about. I get so caught up in myself that I forget about other people.

This is the time of year that people who are hurting hurt more. People who are lonely are lonelier than ever. They feel their loss more. Let us not get so caught up in our Christmas lists and strategic elf placements that we forget to tell our loved ones just how important they are to us. Forget about pricey gifts and flamboyant nonsense, find someone to love on this Christmas. Seek out those who may be hurting or lonely. Hold their hand, give them a hug, and just let them know how much they mean to you.

When you start thinking about others, you won't notice all the things you are "missing".