Peanuts In My Pocket

When it comes to Christmas, or gift-giving occasions in general, I’ve learned that I’m a simple man. I came to that conclusion on Christmas Eve. One of the gifts I received was a pair of photo magnets of me and my son’s dog, Luna. I was so touched by that thoughtful gift that I was genuinely at a loss for words. I also received a tiny desktop disc golf set, which I’ve been playing with ever since. Both gifts made me immensely happy.

Later, I opened a large box filled with tinned fish and sardines. I laughed out loud. Like the earlier gifts, it was absolutely perfect for me. For most of my life, it’s been the small things that mean the most. A book, a photograph, a tin of sardines, or back in the day, a good cigar. Life is easier when small things bring genuine joy.

What I value most, though, is time spent together as a family. I’m not especially attached to Christmas itself as much as I am to a good meal shared with people I love. I missed our big family gathering this year. It’s held on Christmas Day and is usually the best meal of the year. Unfortunately, my wife and I were both under the weather and never made it off the couch. I’m feeling better now, but I missed seeing everyone. I’ll make up for it next year.

Happy holidays.