Christmas was Mimi's absolute favorite time of year! While she enjoyed slowly ripping the wrappings off presents, our family knew she would have rather had 20 minutes of quality bear hugs from Santa. It is hard for me to believe Mimi has been gone for six years. There are moments that will always be difficult. However, I am fortunate to have people in my life that gently nudge me toward joy in unexpected ways. And I never see it coming.
For instance, this year I have been doing lots of different kinds of sewing. One has been experimenting with embellishing a couple of blue jean jackets. The latest is Christmas-themed. I took a Santa panel, trimmed it down, and stitched it on the back.
I texted my daughter, Katie, a photo. She immediately texted back, "Mom, you should embroider the words, 'I know him,' above Santa's head."
Made me smile. Mimi is the one who tethered me tightly to Santa. When Katie and Ricky were growing up, Santa was more like a one-time event. They sat on his lap and had their photo taken. A few of those years they might not have liked it much. Not so with Mimi. She adored Santa's presence. Santa made a guest appearance at the Frantz house on many a Christmas Eve just to hug Mimi.
Then there is my sister, Gretchen. We were chatting on the phone and I happened to ask if she thought the Santa jacket might not be too much for Mass. Of course, she said the perfect thing that I did not expect.
"Wear the jacket. Mimi would have loved it," Gretchen said.
I did.
My Christmas wish for you is to be present and gratefully sprinkle the joy of the season around like glitter! The baby Jesus would have loved it!
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