Nostalgia

Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate. The title of my post isn’t very merry, but with the coming of Christmas I seem to have fallen into the arms of nostalgia.

Going back to Christmas time in Nigeria… caroling to the members of the congregation and being offered more snacks than we could ever finish. A new Christmas dress, Christmas gifts. I was sure that I was Grandma Florence’s favorite grandchild because I got the biggest gift. Christmas was a time filled with joy and love and FOOD. Dad always butchered a big fat turkey and I excitedly plucked its feathers.

First Christmas in Poughkeepsie was special. I do not remember if it was a white Christmas or not but I do remember my first time experiencing snowfall (it was magical). First Christmas after Grandma Esther died…. “Are you singing with angels silent night? I wonder what Christmas in heaven is like”. I do not remember if I was able to sing the song all the way through.

Christmas in Poughkeepsie intersected with Christmas in Oklahoma as Indian Creek Christian School sang “Come Go With Me to Bethlehem”, taking me right back to Hudson River Christmas program with Anthony and Emily Holdeman and the school kids, December 2019. it meant more me right there in the Ringwood school because Anthony and Emily happened to be sitting a few rows behind me.

Two Christmas Eves ago, Brandt and I officially became an engaged couple!

Last Christmas was spent with Brandt’s family and it was fun and special to me.

This Christmas I have found friends that became family, and for that I am forever grateful.

I have lived through many Christmases, all special in their own way. As I reflect on these memories, my eyes fill with tears… nostalgic for what has been but hopeful for what is to come.

Star of the East, thou hope of the soul,

While around us the dark billows roll;

Lead us from sin to glory afar,

Thou star of the East, thou sweet Bethlehem star.

Merry Christmas to you all….

All my Love, Abigael N