Seasons

As each season changes, so does the decor around our homes and neighborhoods. Of all the seasons, I think the change from fall leaves to Christmas boughs is most noticable. There is nothing shy about the way Christmas enters the scene. On November first, the only pumkins and fall leaves you'll see are in clearance bins, and every retail and grocery store is sure to be decked in red and green. I know this bothers a lot of people, but personally, I don't mind it. I do think that Thanksgiving is an important holiday, but the decor is much less festive. Besides, what's wrong with evergreen boughs being part of Thanksgiving? Anyway, I haven't gotten out many holiday decorations yet. I don't have lights, tree or nativity set up. I don't have any holiday wreaths or garlands around my home. But Sunday, I took care of the first item on my holiday to do list. For the last year, the decorations in my home have been second. The first place the season's change for me is at the cemetary where Renee is buried. There we have a small crook where I hang a wreath to match the season. For some reason, this makes her feel so much more a part of the celebration. A part of our lives. At times when I haven't been able to do this small thing, it has weighed on me. I feel like I'm ignoring her, or too busy for her. Even though I know she is not really there, it helps me to acknowledge her presence in my family. And in some ways, it feels like a gift that I give to her. It's one way I remember her, and show my love for her.