All in all, I must admit that the Christmas spirit has been somewhat fleeting this month, although it’s been a little easier to grasp the past few days.
The suddenness of my aunt’s passing struck a chord in our family–all things considered, we’ve been lucky when it comes down to longevity. Death (in people I am close to) was foreign to me prior to this month, so it’s taken some adjusting. For all of us, really.
However, in light of the season, we’re bungling our way through and making the most of it. As my grandmother said on the phone this past week, "we stick it out for the ones that are left". It makes me happy that my family is close; we all talk regularly, and although we don’t see each other as often as we might wish (in terms of cousins/aunts and the like), we do love each other in our awkward ways. My grandparents are making the rounds this holiday season, stopping to visit my remaining aunt for Christmas Eve, and spending Christmas day with my cousin, her husband and their two small children. It will be good for them, I think. Although one is still too young for Christmas-ing, the other is the perfect age for all the magic. :)
Boxing Day, gram and gramp will pack into the car and trek further north to come and see my family. Can’t wait. :)
Myself, I’m doing all right. There are still the bad moments, but there probably always will be. Although it seems small now, in the grand scheme of things, one small run of bad luck led to my Canon Rebel (the "big" camera of the house) finally, and thoroughly giving up on me. It sputters when I try and turn it on.
It was sort of a blessing, though, as I’ve managed to scour together the money to replace it with the newer model (though I admit to waiting and seeing if it will go on sale Boxing Day)! I’ve been wanting to for awhile, but never had quite enough incentive. ;)
In honor of that camera, and the season, I’ve included a few photos from last Christmas. The details of the holidays are what I live for, this time of year.
Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas/WhateverYouCelebrate! <3