Thirty years ago, my Christmas list read:
1. Lose 10 lbs.
2. Check everyone’s size, color and preference
Find out what's happening in Massapequafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
3. Complete all the shopping before noon on Christmas Eve
4. Bake five dozen Christmas cookies and a dozen date nut breads
Find out what's happening in Massapequafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
5. Finish the decorations on the tree and buy a new wreath for the front door
6. Refuse to allow any discussion of either George Bush or Michael Dukakis on Christmas Day.
7. Set the Christmas buffet table for 15 or 20 dinner guests
8. Buy more red and green plaid napkins
9. Attend Midnight Mass
10. Try not to get overtired
11. Don’t stay up late worrying when the younger members of the family party after Mass..
12. Remember the joy of the season and share it with anyone lonely.
13. Defrost and deliver the date nut breads to neighbors early on Christmas Eve.
Today my list of wishes is rather different
1. Lose 10 lbs.
2. Count my blessings for many things, i.e being warm, well fed, and comfortable
3. Order gift cards from Amazon
4. Set the Christmas table using a red and green plaid napkin
5. Suggest the children Facetime instead of phoning.
6. Refuse to discuss Donald Trump or the Clintons all Christmas Day
7. Pray that a loved one, who has forgotten, might remember this year
8. Stop early at the bakery and buy an almond croissant for Christmas breakfast
9. Accept any and all holiday invitations received.
10. Make a playlist of French Christmas carols
11. Remember the blessings of both new and old friends, and include anyone lonely in some Holiday activity.
12. Don’t oversleep or watch too much TV
13. Refuse to be melancholy. Dwell only on the good times, the loves of yesteryear and always smile when remembering the Christmas of yore..
