So I thought I need to do something to get in the spirit of the Season...........
I decided to get out some of my favorite Christmas Songs and play them. Amy Grant is playing in the back-ground of almost all of the Caulk family Christmas video's. And this song
Tennessee Christmas brings so many wonderful memories back in my life. >
Hope you enjoy....
Some of you still have small children and every day you can see the anticipation of Christmas in there eyes. Lists are made, then crossed out. I remember the year, my children had their lists all made, I had done all my shopping and then they all changed their minds........So back to the stores to return and get what was now on their Christmas Wish Lists.
As they grow up........how did that happen? We all have different dreams, and this is another song by Amy Grant that is a Grown Up Christmas Wish. Enjoy and think about our soldiers. My son is in the car driving home from Tennessee tonight.
He will be here until the 18th and then he goes to boot camp for the Navy Reserves. This will be our first Christmas without all the children. Maybe that is why I am in a funk.............
Today, I received the most wonderful gift from Kris Wales. I have never met Kris in person or spoken to her on the phone, but she had read in my comments that Jamie was leaving for the Navy. She had written several posts on her son returning home from the service and how she had saved all his written letters.
Today Kris sent me a sweatshirt. It says, "My Son, My Friend, My Sailor, My Hero".
Not only was this so meaningful to me but coming from a person I have only read her posts and her mine on Activerain.
We have a lot going for us here in the rain.
May we all have a spirit of love and forgiveness towards us, especially during this time of the year.
Missy... I thought it was the weather doing it to me this fall.... Seems with Thanksgiving Day in the 60's I've been thinking Christmas it a long ways off... Still haven't stepped into a store myself but I know I need to get moving... I'm sure you son will be thinking of home on Christmas morning and you can certainly be thankful that your daughter is here.
Its funny I feel like I know you and Kris and you remind me of one another! I've really only met you of course, but that is totally cool about the T shirt.
Wow how wonderful your son is arriving home tonight. Celebrate and enjoy your wonderful family.
You know I figure the Christmas will start soon and we will decorate and enjoy just like everyone else, just on our time frame not commercial America's time frame.
Gary, it is a job. Most of my inside is done. I like that I will start thinking about....LOL
Karen, wasn't that wonderful, I can't wait to meet her. We need a Michigan Activerain event, don't we ? I'm sure I will be more at peace when I can make my *^$) decision !!
Hi Missy - what a beautiful gift from Kris! And how heartwarming to hear about it, too.
I was going to send you an email to see if you'd made your decision yet, but I see from your comment to Karen that you haven't. I wish you the very best in whatever you decide.
Missy, I can truly understand your funk, last year was my first Christmas without my kids. This year as it turns out we are all going to be together but only because the Army decided to send our son to Iraq in March instead of December. I'm glad we will be together for the holidays but he is ready to get going.
I wish your son the best in bootcamp. How long is the Navy bootcamp?
That was very sweet of Kris and I know you will treasure it.
Missy: NOW that will put you in the Christmas spirit. Kris is such an angel. Isn't it wonderful how we can touch each other so much...even without ever meeting face to face? God bless you, my friend!!
Ann, our Regional Director is coming down Tuesday and I need to hear what he has to say...I'm so tired of all the back and forth, probably a reason I"m in such a funk. I hate limbo.
Marchel, I think about 8 weeks, in Chicago so we will be able to go for graduation. I do love it, she said she wore one like it when her son was in and made her feel close to him and I imagine, I'll be sleeping in mine. I know you are thrilled to have everyone home for Christmas.
Elizabeth, Amy Grant always puts me in the Christmas spirit. I have heard her twice, the last time with Mercy Me.
Missy- I want to be in a funk but I can't! I have to be happy and all that for Tristan, to a 5 year old Christmas is all that! But I want to be in a funk because the rest of my kids are all adults and no fun at Christmas like when they were little. My sons will come over but they will sleep because they work so many hours and it will be the first day off since Thanksgiving! Of course we have a grand baby who does not know the difference. I threatened all my kids last year after Christmas that I am not working so hard to make Christmas any more, I had planned to be in Hawaii for Christmas but then our market turned and my daughter was on bedrest before the baby was born so I could not go to Hawaii to escape! Oh, Well, maybe next year! Katerina
Missy, that is a heartwarming post for sure. Glad Kris helped you out of your funk for the holidays. I, myself, haven't really started shopping yet either. But will next week, Hope your son drives home safe and does well in boot camp. AR is a great place to be, I see more and more thoughtfulness and kindness each day here and I am glad I made the decision to come aboard. Happy Holidays!
Missy, I can feel your pain and understand. I will keep your son in my prayers and hope that eases your heavy heart just a little. I realize it's hard to celebrate when you are approaching your son's duty of serving his country. We are all so very lucky to have these young men and the sacrifice that each of their families make. I thank you.
Carnac, would have had a lot to say this week. hummmmmmmmmmmmm
Katerina, Hawaii sounds great, maybe we can all go next year. Of course I would love to have a five year old and grandchild in my home too. Kids make it sooooooooo much fun.
Marey, I'm glad you made the decision to be here too. Kris sure did brighten my day.
Missy -AR certainly helped me many times to get out of my funk. I wish your son all the best -we owe people like him a lot. We owe moms like you a lot too - to raise their sons ready to serve their country. I will pray for both of you.
Missy -AR certainly helped me many times to get out of my funk. I wish your son all the best -we owe people like him a lot. We owe moms like you a lot too - to raise their sons ready to serve their country. I will pray for both of you.
Missy -AR certainly helped me many times to get out of my funk. I wish your son all the best -we owe people like him a lot. We owe moms like you a lot too - to raise their sons ready to serve their country. I will pray for both of you.
Missy--What a great gift from Kris...She is a real sweetheart for thinking of you when your son is away taking care of us all. Glad that your spirits are lifted...You deserve it!
Missy- You just need a big ole dose of Tennessee!
Come on down for a visit huh??!
Glad you are feeling better. Let the sun sparkling on a snowflake
be your miracle. FRemember the small things do add up!
Hugs dearheart!
Missy, this blog and Kris'gift renews my hope here and really helps to usher in the Holidays. Rather than reading someone else trumpeting positivism you gave us a small snippet of someone walking the walk.
Missy.... I am tired and didn't read many of the comments. But don't stress yourself about shopping for Christmas.. I don't want anything big or elaborate. ;o)
Seriously .... that is so awesome in regards to what Kris sent to you. I didn't know that your son was going into the Navy. I still remember the day that I left, when a mini van came by to pick me up... and how my dad cried as he said his goodbye. Yes, there are some great people on this site.
Wow! What a thoughtful gift Kris sent to you! I know what it's like....my son returned home last year....the day the war broke out he was on the USS Kitty Hawk in the Persian Gulf....and it was his birthday...March 19.
Thanks for letting us hear this wonderful story ....
Missy: I'm so glad it arrived. I had hoped it would get there before Jamie left. I did sleep in mine, along with PT shorts that Nick sent me :-) I also had a huge coffee mug that said "Beware: I'll knock you over to get to the phone. I'm an Army Mom and my soldier could be calling." (That was sooooooo very true, especially when he was in Iraq!) I passed it along to another mom when her son left for basic training. I think it's on it's 3rd Mom now.
I started watching the first video and had to stop - too emotional. Amy Grant is one of my favorites, love her!
I had forgotten to ask you where Jamie would be headed and I'm thrilled it's Chicago and not San Diego. When you go for his graduation stuff tissues into every pocket and extra in your purse. The traditions during the graduation ceremonies are so beautiful that I don't believe there is a dry eye throughout them.
Missy, the funk is there for a reason. It's darned difficult to put on a cheerful face when your heart is aching. Recognize the "funk" as a Moms sadness and a normal part of our protectiveness and also a completely normal reaction to changes that we cannot do anything to stop. (That's so hard for us Moms to do - feeling helpless. I remember telling the recruiter who came to pick up Nick: "He can't go. I didn't sign the permission slip for this field trip." ) Set out his plate at the table on Christmas. It will make you feel better.
I'm so glad Jamie can come in for a visit before he leaves. Take plenty of photos of him with hair. Feed him. Mother him. He may be an adult, but they are still little boys inside and he'll be feeling the "What was I thinking??" as the day get closer.
Hi Missy, I can not begin to imagine how difficult it would be to see your child leave for boot camp. But on the other hand, you must be so very proud of him and his decision to serve his country. Remember Christmas is about giving and sharing and you have taught your son well. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Kris, I can't tell you how excited I was when it arrived. I had asked Christa why you needed her email address and she said "never mind". LOL So I was totally surprised. How thoughtful and it really did brighten my day. Thanks for the heads up on the tissues for graduation. He is excited, but I know come Christmas morning...........Men are always Little Boys, always. Even husbands, but enough of that. Thanks so much ! (((hugs)))
Faina, AR does help get one out of a funk...this was a crazy week here. Pray he doesn't get a tattoo.
Gary, getting closer..... I think a lot of people are getting closer.... not quite there but close.
Andrew, why I'm blushing.
Jeff, I didn't even know you were single until I read it in your comment to someone. Should I ask Santa for you a wife? LOL
Jason, isn't it amazing, from someone I have never met, but have a great connection to here. Believe it or not she is only 40 minutes away, where the best mall is in S.E. Michigan. I do believe I will have to take a trip over there.
Sally, I didn't know your son was in the service, crazy timing wasn't it ? But, he's home now, like Kris's son so that is a wonderful thing.
Cynthia, thanks.... I am proud of him, very much so.
What a beautiful and thoughtful present from Kris! 'Tis understandable that you're in a funk, but I know you're proud of your son. Lots of extra prayers coming your way from AR!
Merry Christmas...we just had our annual Hanukkah party last night...too much booze and food...we had like 20 people to entertain...shopping for us was already done!
Missy, What a beautiful story & so refreshing to see this on the Rain. Kris' comment was lovely. What a very kind person. See, this is what the Rain is all about!
OH MY DEAR MISSY, I had no idea your son was in boot camp. I remember being with my sister-in-law the first Christmas her son joined the Navy. It was very hard for her not having him there. I wish you all the best and may God give you the strength to deal with your son's absent this Christmas.
Missy - Kris' comment to you above made my eyes water, imagining all of that. What a beautiful gift she gave you - not just the sweatshirt but all that went with it.
I wish you all the best with your decision making. Ann
ps - I got that 'stacking error' that a number of us got from that blog bar when we added it. I finally took mine off till someone can figure out why that happens.
Missy, Kris is one of the "lights" in the rain as you are. I'm sure it will be a difficult time but blessings to you and your family and always to your son.
Missy, I can only imagine how tough it might be for you. We have a son in Iraq right now but will get to spend Christmas with our daughter-in-law and grandchild. I send my heartfelt wishes to you and will include your son in my prayers. You must be very very proud. You did great! Deb
Ann, I've been getting that stack error BEFORE I put blogbar on. I only added that this morning, so I'm not sure that is it. But, it is weird you got it after you added that. Maybe it's an IE error. If you find out let me know,Please.
Tom, Merry Christmas to you and your family too.
Carole, thanks so much.
Sally, I would never delete your post, you can do it anytime. Thanks for adding it.
Marc, this is so true, one of the more wonderful things about here on the rain. Yes, she is great and the comment was very heart felt.
Mana, I found out this morning that Jamie will go to A School in Ventura County, so I may try to come for Spring Break, so I would love to get together.
Debra, oh my gosh. How long has he been there ? I will definately keep him in my prayers. That is wonderful you get to spend Christmas with your daughter-in-law and grandchild. What branch of the service is he in ?
I have a suggestion from my wife though, about your funk - and it has nothing to do with the kids. for her, she is missing the shopping - although we did go out at 5:00 a.m. on Black Friday. she say just sit down and watch QVC. Remote control in one hand and phone and credit card in the other.
Works for her - she is happier now than in a long time.
Missy-What beautiful music you have chosen and how truly beautiful and giving Kris is. Please know that we are all so grateful to your son and all the many men and woman who are representing our country in such a selfless way. Will you please give your son a hug for me and my family and let him know of our gratitude. God Bless you and yours!
Everyone above me has expressed so many wonderful thoughts to you, Missy. Just know that my family will also be thinking of your family and sending prayers your way. God bless your family. Let us know how he is doing.
Missy~ Be sure to let your son know how grateful we all are for his being willing to step forward and serve his country. It takes a special person to take on such a job. I am sorry for your funk, but it is so understandable. Sometimes the holidays are just the worst because we have such expectations and having our family around us is a big part of what we want.
I am sitting here treeless. By this time of the month I have always had my tree up, but I just haven't been motivated. Today was so icy and nasty that I am not interested in going out to walk through the tree farm looking for the perfect one to cut down. I did do my mantle, and I have purchased 2 gifts so far, I have a looooong way to go by Dec. 25th. Maybe a good Christmas movie would get us jump started.
I am so busy trying to finish the year off strong I can't even believe its Christmas already. Right now I am listening to BlueGrass Christmas Carols -- I am trying.
Sorry to hear you were in a funk, and so glad to hear that Kris helped bring you out of it! What a nice thing for her to do. Have a wonderful holiday and enjoy the time you get to have together!
You've got to be proud Missy! It is a difficult time and a brave choice for men and women to be volunteering for the armed forces. If you were able to attend the Fiddlers ReStrung / Toys For Tots benefit concert at Saline High School recently, you would have seen that the 4 Marines who stood on stage through some of the performance received a standing ovation when they were introduced. It was very moving.
Missy, please thank your son for me. My wife and I appreciate the fact that he is willing to serve and protect those of us who live in this nation. True heroes are few and far between these days, but every one of our soldiers who is willing to put his/her life on the line for another easily qualifies for such recognition. Don't listen to the nay sayers. Our troops have nothing to be ashamed of. Freedom isn't free...whether you are talking about here or somewhere over sea.
Missy, you are such a beautiful friend. Someday I hope that my little son will make me proud too - of whatever he choose to serve in his role as. This is my first Christmas with my baby son even though I cannot quite figure out the perfect gift for him, we'd be spending some great time together.
Missy, what a wonderful show of support. It's wonderful to see such meaningful connections on Active Rain. You and Kris perhaps would never have met without this network. My God bless your family and particularly your son as he begins his training and service to the nation.
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Today Kris sent me a sweatshirt. It says, "My Son, My Friend, My Sailor, My Hero".
Yea, I know I posted the video's backwards.... Sorry.