I guess like many I think Christmas Day is about trying to include friends and family so people are not left alone. Although some will say its just another day (and that is true, it is only a day with a title attached to it) inside they still remember the family excitement and fun that went on. The warm home, smells of cooking and the decorations. The rubbish telly and Top of the Pops were always there along with the Greatest Escape, Colditz and The Wizard of OZ.

So I decided to take to the road and travel the fifty odd miles to my father’s house as this year he is facing his first ever Christmas alone. I knew there would be no fancy meal, gifts or decorations as he just doesn’t want the fuss or hassles.

I packed a small lunch of sandwiches, crisps and a KitKat and off I set. It was bliss. The roads were practically empty, it wasn’t raining and there was a sense of “where has everyone gone” about the scene. It really does go to show how much traffic one incurs and how much it slows one up. A journey of normally one hour twenty minutes was cut down to fifty five minutes without being reckless.

It was actually a pleasure to drive which is rare these days.

We had a good chat about topical issues, science and put the world to right which was brilliant. Nothing to heavy and quite a few things to laugh about.

Since mum died a month or so ago we have been gradually sorting the house out. I say we but it has been more like my brother, dad and sis-in-law. Okay I have helped in a minor way and I have done what I can during the limited time I have when visiting. Things are slowly forging ahead.

One thing I was given was my “file” which contained tax codes, national insurance numbers and such. It mainly held my old school reports from kindergarten to senior level. None had much to feel proud of. “Could do better if tried”, “He is a nice boy but lacks concentration,” “He tends to be a bit disruptive in class” and “very weak academically”. The only real positive was sport and I suppose being awarded my School Colours proved I was an asset in this area. I just hated the lessons and antiquated style of teaching. Luckily I don’t have to rely on these references today as a new member of the work force. I do look back and think it was a bit of a waste but there again I wouldn’t have met and done the things that have blossomed in my life to date. They may have been better or a darn sight worse, who knows? What I do know is that the people and places I have met and been to have shaped me into who I am today and yeah I feel comfortable and proud to say so.

I haven’t done that bad after all. I have a home, a job, a brilliant little car, a vile dog, friends to brag about and loved ones in their basket full (they are all mad).  I even have a little money in the bank and cupboards full of food. To be honest I don’t really want any more or less.

The best Christmas Present I have given to myself and those around me is a growing confidence, happiness and honesty. I really do think I am living the best life I have had in many a year and although its taken a year, and upset to some, to get to this position I can’t imagine anyone begrudging me this feeling however much anger or grief they are experiencing.

This is not about me though. It is about taking the time to think of others who are having to deal with sadness, hassles and worry. Its also about taking time out to send a prayer of hope and good wishes to loved ones who are experiencing heartache, illness and unsure futures.

I enjoyed my visit yesterday. Both the driving and goodwill cheer to dad made for a very relaxing and undemanding day.

Happy Christmas ALL and remember a visit to someone, even for a short time, often is better than an invite but I guess we can’t all visit as that would end in just swapping places.

Thanks for  reading.