I can't believe it's been nearly a year since I've posted here....we faced deep heartache in our family this past year, some health issues, the passing of best friends, but the most heartbreaking and life altering was losing our sweet, sweet Ryan in April. I'm sure most of you know of his passing. He left us all too soon. Our Christmas won't be the same this year, or ever.
We continue to strive to stay positive and happy and live life to the fullest, as Ryan wanted us to and how he would if he were with us.
For all who have followed us here or on other sites you are familiar with the story of the
Paper Bag Santa. If for some reason you aren't and would like to read it, you can look in the left sidebar here under Archived Posts. Scroll to 2021, click and then choose December. I think it will be the second post.
I decided to revisit him, not for us, as we see him each and every year. He oversees the Christmas festivities from a special perch so he doesn't miss a thing. I am revisiting so that those of you who haven't read it or those that didn't know about Ryan could read if you choose.
The above photo was taken by Ryan. It's one of my all time favorites. He left us with so many wonderful photos that bring us sweet memories. Memories of his many gifts. His gift of being an accomplished artist. His smile, that each time I see, I hear his contagious laughter. His brilliant mind, his knack to take a bunch of groceries and quickly turn them into a gourmet meal. Most of all I remember his kind, kind heart and his ability to make everyone feel like they mattered when it was needed most.
Our special Santa sits well above the Keeping Room with full view of the festivities.....
right here on the top of the hall cupboard, where he can oversee all the family as we gather. There will be laughter, mischief, lots of food & gifts of course. Ryan's nephew River will be here sharing his first Christmas with us. River will not remember a Christmas with Ryan. He will hear all of our memories of Uncle Ryan and come to know him through us. We will introduce him to our special Santa and tell him the tale.
It will be altered just a bit this year, the special man who gifted this Santa won't be the only one watching us through the eyes of Santa.....Ryan will be right along side him.
There will be a sadness in all our hearts without Ryan among us. There will also be joy knowing he is with Gramps, keeping watch on us all.
Merry Christmas from Our Family to Yours ❤️
