Day after Christmas .....

The day after Christmas and all through the house!!!!  After returning from an appointment at the hospital with the doctor this morning, the house felt empty and sort of hollow.  All the guests have departed, gifts presented, recipes baked and cooked and leftovers stored away, cards mailed.... the tree looked a bit lonely with no ribbons shining on presents or gaily colored boxes beneath it.  Here are a few photos of the night before Christmas, though, to remind me of all the anticipation!

This was awaiting delivery on Christmas day.

One special lady has a birthday just a few days before Christmas, so she gets a birthday present along with the Christmas gifts.

 Such fun to wrap and decorate .... and anticipate just how the receiver will react when opening each gift.

Now just memories remain of visits from out-of-state family and grandchildren, and trips to the homes of the in-state family the following day to share good food and exchange gifts.  I think the most fun is seeing everyone and being there to witness the gifts to each other and feel the joy of this Christmas.  The food was scrumptiously good.  We are blessed with bounty in this country for sure.  The day after is kind of a letdown, but memories remain.

My plan is to take my camera to church to photograph the beauty present in the sanctuary and chapel - the holy presence there .... the stained glass windows inspiring worship of our Lord and King.  Perhaps I can slip in during the week when a service is not taking place to shoot some photos to share with you.  It did not seem appropriate to photograph anything during the Christmas services or during a Sunday service - but maybe during the week I can do that.  During Christmas the banks of poinsettias and stately evergreens add a beauty all their own.  It would be nice to share that with you.

Hope you had a joyous and blessed time with your friends and family.

Janet