Year Three, Day 225: Hallelujah

I am sitting alone at a Starbucks in Vancouver, Washington. A most moving rendition of Hallelujah, sung by Pentatonix is flowing through the speakers, and into my heart.

I can't remember ever feeling so content. Soon I will walk out into the snow and catch a bus to my daughter's house where she, her husband and Baby Gracie are getting ready for dinner.

Our traditional Christmas Eve pho was cancelled. So was the candlelight service at their church.

Snow on Christmas Eve! So lovely. And so wonderful that I have been given this gift of solitude. No place I need to be, but family who I love and who loves me, always welcoming each other.

Salmon encrusted with herbs at McGraths Fish House

We started a new tradition yesterday after my homeless concert. Girl lunch at McGraths Fish House with my daughter, Baby Gracie, my mother and I. We had a wonderful time. It's my mother's favorite lunch spot in Vancouver. I followed her lead and ordered the salmon encrusted with herbs. It did not disappoint!

But mostly, it was just a sweet time with four generations of women. It was my Christmas present to my mom. She was very happy. After lunch, I did some laundry with my daughter and Gracie. Then we headed to the store to pick up some popcorn.

I am loving these simple family times. I can't remember a Christmas season that has been so stress free! I owe it partially to my brother. We usually convene at his home in Lake Oswego for every major holiday. This year, he and his family are in Huntington Beach. We will celebrate with him in January when they return. The rest if us are in small homes, rented rooms, trailers and shared housing. It is with a sign if relief that no one stepped up to host Christmas.

Hallelujah!

Without all the decorations, meal planning, shopping and gift wrapping, we are free to focus on our faith. The birth of Jesus. And the love we have for each other.

I am so grateful for So much this year. My renewed faith, my improving health, my family, especially our newest addition, Baby Gracie!

But I am also grateful for this blog. To have an outlet to process my thoughts and feelings. And knowing there are people out there who read this actually care.

I am thankful for you my dear reader! May your Christmas be blessed!

Talk to you tomorrow.

Love,

Zita

P.S. Here is today's hooping video. Listen carefully, you can hear Baby Gracie vocalizing in the background!

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