Posted 12-24-19
Growing up an Applegate holds far, far more good memories than bad. At Christmas, things were particularly joyful, mainly because our folks spent even more time with us than usual. Leading up to the big day, mom always gathered the troops together to make things to hang on the tree. Sure, we had all of the standard plastic tree fare, but it was always a hoot to make our own as well. Sometimes we would buy regular ornaments and bedazzle them with glitter. Other times we would string popcorn. We made paper ring garland other years. There would always be a sprinkle of grumbling followed by an hour of fun as we prepped our creation. Our folks loved us growing up and it was always apparent because they made a conscious effort to spend time with us. 🙂
Mom is in a place now where the new memory-making is harder, but still possible. We have had a very fun time the last few visits looking through the 100+ Christmas cards she received as part of our card shower. 🙂 She loved the pictures and smiled at the words. We laugh through our episodes of M.A.S.H. and Andy Griffith, most notably in the physical humor scenes that both excel in. Times are still good, and mom is doing well for a late-stage, hospice-certified patient. Her work in parenting/mothering/wifing is complete although she still does a dang good job trying. Oh, for the days ahead in heaven where we can pick up where we left off, with no sign of sickness, sadness or sin!!!
I hope each of you have a Merry Christmas! Keep your head up, your eyes ahead and your heart set on the reason for the season. When the holiday is done and we have exhaled, we will resume the fight to #EndALZ !
You are deeply loved by me and by our God,
-Mark, your cornbread cook
