A Christmas I'll Never Forget - 2021

Last week, I promised I’d share the story of my Christmas in 2021 — a Christmas that changed me in ways I’ll always be grateful for. It wasn’t the easiest season of my life. In fact, it was one of the hardest. After visiting our kids for Thanksgiving, my husband and I came home feeling “off.” At first, we brushed it off as a simple cold. But it wasn’t long before Covid hit us both.

My husband tested positive first. A week later, I did too. The medicine didn’t help, the symptoms got worse, and every day felt heavier than the one before. When my friend told us to check my oxygen, the number flashed 70… and that’s when everything changed. Before I knew it, I was rushed into the ER, surrounded by a team working quickly to stabilize me. Covid had passed — but pneumonia hadn’t. I spent seven days in the hospital, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

But here’s the part that stayed with me: Christmas showed up anyway.

It showed up in my husband visiting with a little dinner for two. In flowers placed by my bed. In FaceTime calls from my kids and grandkids. In the quiet realization that Christmas has never been about the gifts, the lights, or the perfect table setting. It’s about the people God places in our lives… and the time we still get to cherish with them.

Since that year, I see Christmas in a new light — a softer, truer one. No need to go overboard. Your presence will always matter more than any present.

My wish is that everyone reading this finds that same clarity, that same appreciation, and that same warmth this season. Because even in a hospital room, Christmas found me — and it turned out to be one of the most meaningful ones of my life.

P.S. The song, I'll be Home for Christmas - Now more than ever has the best meaning for me. Always makes me cry!