After a few low-key Christmases due to bereavements and family health issues, I had no great expectations of this year, but I was looking forward to it all the same.
Over the last year or two as my Parkinson’s has progressed, I’m more aware and grateful of what I can to do. I’m happy not to over commit to social events and I’m increasingly careful to manage my meds and the consumption of alcohol to help me speak and keep moving.
The build up to Christmas was good this year, with playing music, art workshops and watching football and darts featuring heavily.
I was excited to be spending this Christmas in my new home, in a good, loving relationship, and being able to share Christmas with the remaining family I’m lucky to have.
Last Christmas there was an understandably dark cloud hanging over our Christmas. It was the first one without Dad and my sister was about to have a mastectomy to treat breast cancer…
12-months later, and one of the most poignant moments of this Christmas day which was spent at my sister and brother-in-law’s (my new neighbours) was when my sister opened a present from her mother-in-law: a personalised 5-year diary.
A beautifully thoughtful present!
After a brief emotional moment, and a heartfelt toast to absent friends, normal service was resumed, and board games provided the focus for family competitiveness, laughter and making of new memories.
Nothing fancy or flash this Christmas, just warmth, good food, lovely company and being grateful for what you have. Just as I believe it should be.