24 December 2024

This has been a very different Christmas in some ways. Yet it has been similar to a few Christmases long ago. Please know that ALL of us in The Hermitage are just fine. This year has just been "different" in so many ways. Several of us have talked to others who feel this was a difficult year. They, as well as all of us in The Hermitage, hope that next year will be different. 

Decorator did NOT decorate. There is no tree. There is no nativity. No wreath. No bells. No candles. No garland. No gifts. No stockings. No nothing. There ARE lights out front in the yard. They are pretty and remind us of years past. We have enjoyed them. Decorator is NOT a scrooge. None of us are. Things just didn't happen this year.

Correspondent didn't send out Christmas cards. Yes, THIS is unusual. Perhaps Happy New Year cards are in order? Time will tell. She did get out the Christmas cards, but time slipped by.

Seamstress did no sewing.

Builder didn't make any cute things. 

Crafter and Artist did do anything.

Baker and Chef DID make treats and gave them to others. This is a tradition that goes WAY back to when Queen was a child. The Queen Mum always made treats, and plates of goodies were taken to the neighbors. The tradition of the "fruitcake" however, stopped with The Queen Mum. 

As we look back on this year, we are overlooking the rough spots and have focused on the blessings, joys, triumphs, and things we just got through because ALL of us in The Hermitage persevered. We have decided that we are SO blessed. We know the true meaning of Christmas, and that means more to us than anything else. We get together with family frequently, and that means everything. We have The Hermitage, and enjoy incredible comforts within it, and in the yard. We've had food to eat all year. We've been blessed to enjoy good health. We have incredible neighbors and friends. We have faith, hope and our beliefs. We really want for nothing. The things we have prayed for have been given to us. Disciple has had the opportunity to serve in the Temple for a year now and that has been an incredible blessing. Yes, WE are ALL blessed, and humbled by all of the blessings. 

We are thankful that God loved us SO much, He provided a way back. He gave ALL of US His only begotten son. 

All of us in The Hermitage wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Season's Greetings, and Happy New Year. May you find how you've been blessed, and overlook the trials and challenges. Most of us are blessed far more than we think of daily.