This Christmas seemed so different than all the others for some reason. I can’t quite put my finger on it either. Maybe it is because my 
daughter was with her dad this year and was with him on her birthday as well?! Maybe because money is tight for me this year, more so than most yeas?! Maybe it just came way too fast?! I know I’ve been in a mood the past few days leading up to Christmas, doing everything I could to stay in the Holiday Spirit. Listening to Christmas music, baking, etc . . . seemed to work but mostly a mask (horrible I know). Well this morning I woke up Christmas morning – alone . . . rather than being down and feeling sorry for myself because I was along, I laced up my shoes and headed out for a run. Wasn’t on my schedule but running is my therapy!!! On that run, so many things went through my head . . . I reflected on all the blessings I have in my life and how thankful I am!!! It seems so easy to forget the simple things in life when we get caught up in the rush of everyday life. Just one month ago I posted about all that I’m thankful for, Christmas is a time to not let them fall into the shadows . . .
The little blessing that makes a huge impact . . .
My Daughter who turned 9 on Dec 22 IS my guardian angel and the reason I’m here today. She is my rock; the one thing that keeps me going when I feel weak and pushes me to keep going, to inspire . . .
My Family who will drive me crazy at times but will always put a smile on my face when I need it most . . . we are far from normal but love each other and are always there for one another regardless!!!
I know there are people who aren’t going to be experiencing the holidays like most people will be, some won’t have their kids because of a separation/divorce situation. Some will be miles away deployed and fighting for our freedom, some are dealing with a loss of a loved one. It goes without saying, that a lot of people are financially strapped and feeling like the lack of income takes away quite a bit of the holiday spirit. Regardless, you HAVE to find a peaceful side to whatever situation you’re in and make the most of it because there are always hidden blessings in everything 
. And yes I know it’s usually easier said than done and sometimes hard to see but remembering, near or far, family and friends are always in our hearts! Including the blessings in disguise!!!
It’s not about the gifts wrapped up under the tree because on this Christmas day – we were all given the best gift of all . . . Our Savior, Jesus Christ was born!
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS
Great post Brittany, your writing is always inspiring! Merry Christmas!