Hard Candy Christmas

That is the title of a Dolly Parton song. And the way I feel this year. Even with car trouble, working, little money and my Soldier away from home, Christmas was still sweet. We had Krysta, Cotton and the grandbabies over for Christmas Eve. Jacob and Lucy really know how to "make the season bright" We had a nice dinner and a lot of laughs. It was really good to get to sit down with Krysta and Cotton and visit for a while. I called my Mom this morning and let her know I love her. And I woke Aaron up, I found out that just because it is 9:00 here in Texas doesn't mean it is 9:00 in Washington. As a matter of fact, it is only 7:00 there. Any way, I had to talk to Aaron later, when he was actually awake.
On my way home from work, I heard a song on the radio that made me cry. It was a country song about Christmas. The guy sang about children, gifts, lights and decorations, then he sang the first few words of the chorus, "All I want for Christmas is a soldier, coming home."
Needless to say, I boo-hooed half the way home. I really missed my son. I feel so bad for him. I know he must be so lonesome for his family. He has never been away for so long and especially at Christmas. I'm not sure if I was sad for me or for him. Maybe both of us.
When I got home from work, my sweet husband had cleaned house and cooked for me. He grilled Bacon-wrapped Elk Medallions. YUMMY!!!!!! No kidding, they were great!! What a great guy. Who could possibly be sad when you know you are loved this much!!!
Like Dolly says,"I'll be fine and dandy, Lord it's like a hard candy Christmas, I'm barely gettin' through tomorrow, still I won't let sorrow get me way down."
And we still have the gift of love, that is the whole reason for Christmas. And God's promises to see us through. Thank you Lord, for the gift of your Son and the promise eternal salvation. Thank you for my beautiful family, my adorable grandchildren, my loving husband. Thank you for a good job, a warm home and plenty to eat. Thank you for caring friends and our new and wonderful church family.
Than you for this past year, thank you for new beginnings. In Jesus name, Amen

Okay, I'm caving in to pressure and updating my blog for those who are interested. We had a great Thanksgiving. As you can see, it was quite a spread. We had everyones favorites. We also had all my favorites. Jerry, Krysta, Geri, Aaron, Tish and of course, Jacob and Lucy. Cotton was even able to join us. We went to Missouri and picked Aaron up, Nov. 21, the ride home was excrutiatingly long. Aaron went to sleep, I had an awful time trying to stay awake and I felt terrible because Jerry was driving and he was tired too. We finally made it home around 3:oo in the morning. I didn't have to be at work until 2:00 in the afternoon so I was able to get some sleep. It was definately worth it to have everyone together for the holiday. Aaron leaves for Fort Lewis, in Washington, this Wed. I have really enjoyed having him home and I'm going to miss him when he leaves. I am so proud of him and what he is doing with his life. anyway, I will try to put some more family holiday photos on here for you later, Mom. Hope every one had a great Thanksgiving.