As the year comes to an end and thoughts turn to Christmas, Natalie Moutafis reflects on how this Christmas, time spent with family is the most joyous gift of all.
It’s been a year. We all know that.
It’s been such a year, that here in Melbourne, the grown-ups in the Tiny Human household began to plan for a Christmas holiday period where it was just the four of us together, staying home. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, but it meant explaining why we wouldn’t see grandparents and extended family for Christmas this year.
It was a Christmas miracle when we heard that interstate borders were to be reopened in time for Christmas and we could begin to think about seeing the family.
We haven’t fully explained it to the tiny humans, but they know we are going on a road trip soon and will get to see all their favourite people.
People they haven’t seen in over a year.
People that we’ve been fortunate enough to speak to regularly thanks to technology such as facetime.
People that they speak about fondly and often.
People that quite simply, bring them joy.
Joy is ordinary moments made meaningful by the presence of the most precious people – Jessica Milburn, Educator & Parenting Mentor
We’ve all missed each other, and if this year has taught us anything, it’s that human connection is so very important, and all the video calls and letters, drawings and parcels in the mail aren’t a substitute for a big warm cuddle and kiss from those people you love.
So while my son is writing letters to Santa asking for obscure gifts (‘a blue mouse’ anyone?!) I’m quietly planning how to get all the parcels packed away to take back to where they came from so the gift givers can give them to him personally and see that spark of joy and love on his face – and his sister’s – in person.
But honestly, while the gifts will be played with and very appreciated, it’s moments such as playing in the pool with their silly uncles, running through the sprinkler that their Pa puts on the backyard grass just for them and licking the spoon when baking delicious treats with Nan and going for walks to spot Koalas and other local wildlife – put simply, it’s a return to carefree times.
They say that Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, and this year I really believe it.
Wishing you and yours the most joyous of holiday seasons, wherever you are.
About Natalie Moutafis
Natalie Moutafis is the author of our Tiny Humans blog, providing her engaging and insightful take on life with two young children. Natalie is also a project manager at ISV.
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