Christmas Without You

Dear Mom,

It is the first Christmas without you, Mom. Nothing will be the same. While I decorate my home, I won’t see you sitting in your favorite chair admiring every ornament as I perfectly place them on the branches of my tree. I won’t hear you say how beautiful it is when the lights are lit and garland is hung. The memories of years ago and ceramic classes where we made our reindeer and sleighs is just a special memory of that time we spent together. When planning the holiday feast, I’ll miss calling you for recipe advice. Your suggestions and comments about our Christmas menu were always welcomed.  On Christmas Eve, a glass will sit in the cabinet as everyone sips their favorite martinis. The place at the table where you oversee the dinner spread will remain empty.
 
I’ll always remember how you loved to watch midnight mass in Rome on Christmas Eve. The boys will not have their Grandma sitting in that special chair watching them open their presents as they sit around the tree once morning comes around. I could just picture your eyes light up when all the little ones come later in the day to give you a Merry Christmas hug. Yes, Mom, nothing will ever be the same without you on Christmas, and every single day that passes thereafter. All I could hope and pray for is that your Christmas in heaven with Dad and everyone else you love will be even more special than they ever were when you were here.
 
Even though we will not see you as Christmas comes and goes, I believe you will be with us as our angel, our beautiful, wonderful angel.  
 
All my love,
Donna

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