Christmas Blessings

The scent that fills the air, wistful aromas that enflame one’s memories,

The turkey basting takes one back to childhood,

The smell bathing the rooms in which we breathe,

A time capsule catapulting us through each precious year.

The scent trail.

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Ears giddy with the sound of laughter; from in front of the tree and around the kitchen table,

Giggles from young babes in arms, gusty belly laughs from their parents,

High pitched squeals of delight as paper crinkles to the floor,

Chuckles over toddler antics; first Christmas reactions.

Delightful harmony.

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The epitome of a tight hug from one missing all year long,

Handshakes from unexpected guests — delightfully surprising,

Kisses under well placed mistletoe; young love sprouting,

Casual shoulder clasps interpreting gratitude.

The magic of touch.

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Sensory overload of seeing the entire family joyfully making new memories,

Familiar faces a sight for sore eyes, new friends making a special appearance,

Photographs of past years on display along festive mantelpieces,

New pictures of generational embodiments; grandparents to newborns.

The gift of family.

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Salivating tongues dying to partake in the taste of the feast,

Rich gravy dribbling gleefully down young chins,

Roast turkey, roast vegetables, Christmas pudding, fruit salad and trifle,

Tummies ecstatic and filled to the brim.

The ultimate taste test.

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Love flows from hearts of generosity,

Hearts intertwined by invisible threads impossible to break,

Arms that hug hard, eyes that cry tears of joy, laughter that explodes from happiness,

A day made of love, compassion, forgiveness and togetherness.

A tribe of belonging.

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Christmas is a feast of the senses,

Eclipsing the joy it embodies in tradition,

Bringing families together in a passion of acceptance,

Grievances forgotten, pain locked away, festivities reign.

The magic of Christmas.