a different kinda christmas

last week, i got news that i am scheduled to work christmas day. you can imagine the surprise, frustration, and disappointment i felt when i found out that i will be in the hospital, working, away from my family. i should have known this reality was bound to happen, considering i haven't had to work a single christmas in the four years i've been a nurse.

but this year feels different. it's the first christmas g and i are married, and in some way, it feels monumental to be able to share the holiday with my parents - the couple who witnessed our beginning and celebrated our union. and of course, there's the comfort of being in my childhood home during this festive time - the way mama decorates the house with lights, pine, and their humble christmas tree adorned with handmade ornaments from years past. i love tradition and i love sharing it with others.

after sulking about for a day, i finally came to terms with my reality and accepted it. looking at g sitting at his desk after we settled back into our studio from thanksgiving, a new light was shed. he is my family and we have a home (that will soon be adorned with winter cheer!!). sacrifices have to be made, as do new traditions.

wherever we are in this world, and with whomever we celebrate the season, joy will abound as long as we allow it. i choose to be grateful for this change, because although it's s stretch from my norm, the change encourages me to see the greatness right in front of me. and spending christmas with my husband is pretty great.

our first christmas together, 2010

christmas last year, 2013