The author expresses feelings of “melancholiday” – a mix of sadness and joy during the holiday season, especially on what they call their “First Last Christmas”. The family is preparing for a significant change, as eldest daughter Audrey is set to marry, altering their longtime holiday traditions. The author reflects on the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and intends to focus more on present moments, despite nostalgic feelings.
Tag Archives: Holidays
Just the Beginning
After Jesus’ death on the cross, the story of love seemed to have come to a horrific, tragic end. To His closest friends, it seemed like the end of a dream. They could not believe, in spite of everything Jesus had said, that there could be anything more to the story. He was dead. Buried.Continue reading “Just the Beginning”
It’s Not “The Easter Story”
The story of Easter is usually told incorrectly by most Christians. We start the story with Palm Sunday and a triumphal entry and Hosannas, then jump to Jesus on a cross, end with His resurrection, and then invite everyone to make a decision for Him. In the space of 30 minutes or so, we presentContinue reading “It’s Not “The Easter Story””
Good News In the Starbucks Queue
I can hear a Christmas carol playing while I stand in line here at the Starbucks in Denver Airport. I think I’m the only person listening to the words, which are full of Good News. Whether it’s sung by Bing Crosby or Perry Como, by Bob Seeger or Elvis Presley, the music of the seasonContinue reading “Good News In the Starbucks Queue”
Forget Thanksgiving.
The holiday tomorrow is a weird one. Ostensibly, Thanksgiving Day is set aside for our nation to give thanks to God for His unexpected and undeserved blessings (inspired by President Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation in 1863 and set as law by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1941). It’s now a day where we eat, watch a paradeContinue reading “Forget Thanksgiving.”
Don’t Forget the Wonder
There’s an important story in the life of Christ that might be good for us to take a look at before we jump into the busy holiday season that really kicks off for most of us this week. As we get ready for the familiar feelings of baking, being with friends and family, decorating forContinue reading “Don’t Forget the Wonder”
I Really Don’t Care How You Feel About Red Cups
In 1997, Starbucks introduced a special new cup to hold its beverages during the holiday season. “The theme for holiday was “Give in to the Rhythm,” and the red festive cups punctuated the jewel-toned palate of deep reds, greens, blues and yellows and a jazzy Santa with a profile that evoked the Starbucks siren,” accordingContinue reading “I Really Don’t Care How You Feel About Red Cups”
Thanksgiving: Day 1
The holidays are upon us. With the end of Halloween, we are in full “season’s greetings” mode. This is my favorite time of the year, and it’s easy to rush through it all. I am going to endeavor to write one thing I am grateful for every day until Thanksgiving. There is so much toContinue reading “Thanksgiving: Day 1”
Christmas Music 2011
Walk into your local Target and you’ll see an endcap full of Christmas music. There’s a few collections made just for Target, usually a young newer artist who puts out an EP exclusive, and there will be some collection CD’s re-releasing the same 24 versions of the same 24 songs that have been on nearlyContinue reading “Christmas Music 2011”
Ah, Bleak and Chill the Winter Wind
“Ah, bleak and chill the wintry wind, but colder far be he who hath no warmth of love to share.” She had been standing on the corner since morning. The skies had clouded up, and the first hints of winter snow fell. But she was standing on the corner, wrapped tightly in her winter coat,Continue reading “Ah, Bleak and Chill the Winter Wind”
Duane S. Montague 