Sometimes as I sit in my living room late at night, the Christmas lights turned low and the house is silent and still. . .  I dream a little.

I dream about the years when my children were tiny, and the excitement of the coming Christmas Eve built to a crescendo until they could hardly fall asleep.  I dream about the trips to the grandparents’ home to see the family; and the fun it was getting just the right gift for the names we had drawn.  I dream about the White Christmas Fruit Cake that my mother-in-law specialized in.  And how I learned to make it to keep a tradition alive and strong.

I dream a little.

Sometimes my dreams are of more recent years; years when our home was the place for grandchildren to come.  The fun and excitement of putting up just the right decorations, and planning the best meals for those who would soon come bursting through our door!  Ahhh and let’s not forget the perfect gifts for each and every one.  Family and friends coming to spend a few precious moments in the spirit of Christmas present.  The visit to the church of choice for a Christmas Eve prayer, and the gifts of pajamas for all to share.  And certainly most importantly, the Grandoc preparing and reading the Christmas story to one and all on Christmas Eve.  His rendition was always the best we’d had ever heard.  It was a time of joy and fun and a time of sharing.

I dream a little.

And then my dreams turn to the current Christmas season.  The time and place will be different this year, but precious non-the-less.  Gifts will be opened and smiles will be shared.  Family will know that they are loved both far and near.  The tree will shine brightly with the stars that represent the Star of Bethlehem, the Christmas meals will be cooked by those a bit younger and more able.  And the little ones will gather round to love and be loved.

I dream a little.

Of course, as things will be, there will surely be a few more Christmas’ to come.  My dreams turn to what these could hold.  Perhaps there will be surprises untold as hearts are healed, and families are restored.  Or, it may be that new traditions are formed and old things are tucked away for remembering another day.

Regardless, the ghosts of Christmas’ past, Christmas present, and Christmas future will come and go.  Hopefully, the memories we make, the treasures we share, and the love we give will be enough to carry us through to another year.

Merry Christmas to you!