The spirit of Christmas

It comes as no great surprise that I have not had much holiday cheer these days. Finding the joy in the season is difficult when your better half is gone. But I promised myself (and my Joe) that I would do my best to enjoy this Christmas with all of our family and friends. Keeping up one of our most treasured traditions was on the agenda today, and with the help of Joe’s sister Kathy, we accomplished just that!

We started at Braum’s for a burger and shake (Joe’s favorite burger joint), and then to scour the antique shops in Claremore looking for the perfect Santa. I told Kathy I would know it when I saw it. We saw lots of old Santas including one I loved that was way too expensive. You see, Joe was frugal. Actually, he was cheap, so we never spent more than $20 for any of our Santas over the years. Kathy & I found lots of great gifts, including an apron that would have been right up Joe’s alley.

But after going through three shops my hope was dwindling that we would find just the right Santa for my collection. And then it happened. We were crammed into this tiny little booth looking at the cutest clothes that were 75% off, when I turned the corner just to turn myself around.

And there he was. It took my breath away and the tears welled up instantly. Sitting atop an old glass case, with a 50% off sign next to it. His pack is full and his glasses sit just right on his nose. He was the one Joe led me to. I told my sister-in-law “I found him”, as the tears rolled down my cheeks.

While this Christmas will be so hard without Joe, I know he was with me today in spirit, and he’s in my heart always. Christmas isn’t about Santa and gifts anyway. It gives me so much peace knowing Joe gets to celebrate Jesus’ birthday with Jesus. And my Joe loved a party, so the celebration in heaven will be full of joy, and music of course.

I’m grateful to Joe’s sister for suggesting we go find a Santa. And I’m grateful that my Joe was able to lead me to the right one. A tiny bit more Christmas spirit found its way into my heart today. I’m most grateful for that.

Are you able to find any Christmas spirit this year?