I had a gift that opened itself on Christmas morning! Neighbor Shawn had given me a Christmas cactus with buds, and one burst into full bloom at the most appropriate time.

It seems perfect to label this Christmas Day “self-opening”. I didn’t know what to expect, but my expectations were high. The standard ideal of being among your dearest people, opening gifts before a warm fire, calling out thank yous, and eating a hearty meal were not part of my scene this year. Neighbor Holly was just leaving her house as I walked to the end of my driveway. She wondered where I was going, and I asked her the same thing. She was heading to open gifts with relatives in the next town. I walked to the stop sign, walking being something I NEVER did on Christmas morning.

Only one car passed me going into the development. Both driver and passenger returned my wave with enthusiasm. Going home, I chatted with a woman who stopped to wish me a Merry Christmas. She thought I hadn’t been walking, but I assured her I was there the day before. I’m wondering if she usually sees me from her house, not her car.

I walked by a special greeting without noticing it, until I went the other way. This was in front of the house where a schoolboy lives. It says, “Merry Christmas Wyatt from Frosty the Elf.” I’m sure it was a surprise for the boy, and perhaps he hadn’t seen it yet. What fun!

I had worked the Wordle puzzle before going out and saw niece Chrissie’s puzzle on the way home. Normally I don’t look at texts, but I thought Shawn might be letting me know that Logan was on his way to walk with me. He must have slept through his good intentions. These were my comments, “I’m at the stop sign and heading home. I am at the sheep pasture now. Progress! I’m at the big bend now. Is this like watching Santa circle the globe via the internet? I’m at the top of Tibi Lane now.”

I had worn Christmas clothes that no one saw, covered by coat and jeans. After walking I put on Christmas finery, always being dressed to my standards before watching church on line. It wasn’t so fine, though, because the top was too big. I’ve been pulling it back on my shoulders and vowing that I will put it in the give-away bin straight from the washer and dryer. There must have been at least one other year when it did fit.

At noon I ate Stollen for breakfast, a gift from Gerhard in Germany. It was as delicious as always. I sat at the dining room table for a more formal setting for a special breakfast.

Next I opened a gift I received days ago, saved for this moment. Throughout the day I was texting with family, friends, and neighbors.

This short day was filled with joy and love. I’m thinking of all of you who have touched my life and giving thanks for you, including dear blogging friends. Merry Christmas!