It really helped knowing that someone is holding my hand. I am still awake … on my own. But now I feel your hand holding mine. That means a lot right now. I am trying to reply to you, Barbara O’Neal. But it’s ok either way. I just want to thank you for holding my hand.
Yes. Me too. You are my most beloved author Ever. You talk to my heart and soul. I am born in Czechoslovakia, raised in the US… Boston, Mass. My adult life, I have lived in Sweden. Made my family here. 5 kids and 8 grandkids. My oldest child, Susan, died when she was 11 years old. Life has been beautiful between gratitude and grief. But you know this place because you have the knowing. And I recognize you there. And I love you for it. I see you too.
What you said, Barbara--absolutely, and absolutely true (and marvelous)!
If you don't want to celebrate, don't, if at all possible. I have had recent years where I metaphorically made a blanket fort and stayed there until all the holly jolly went away. If you feel like that, I echo Barbara--do what you need to do, as much as you are able (if you have others depending on you to be there, I get that). But take care of yourself. It's crucial. This time of year can be so painful.
This year, for the first time in a few, I actually have been eager to celebrate, and have been since November. When joy arrives for you again, grab it!
Merry and happy and joyous everything to everyone, whatever that means to you, even if it means you eat cheese and crackers inside a blanket fort and binge on books. Do what heals.
Merry Christmas. We went to The Island in Pigeon Forge for Christmas Eve last night. It's the first time we've done something on Christmas Eve since we've been together and we're considering doing it every year. I'm glad one of your just cuz activities turned into a family tradition. I'm thinking about reading the day away today and ignoring the I Should Be Writing mantra.
I love all of your writing Barbara, both here and in your books. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment! Merry Christmas to you and your family. ❤️ Laurie
Thank you for this. This has been a tough week for me for several reasons. I just read this essay and I kind of sighed and felt like it was going to be okay.
Thank you tor all the wonderful hours lost in your characters Their lives and love’s Barbara.
Ive read everything you’ve written I think and am now re reading them again in pure enjoyment, thank you and a very Merry Christmas dear woman .
It really helped knowing that someone is holding my hand. I am still awake … on my own. But now I feel your hand holding mine. That means a lot right now. I am trying to reply to you, Barbara O’Neal. But it’s ok either way. I just want to thank you for holding my hand.
I’m glad you found your way here.
Yes. Me too. You are my most beloved author Ever. You talk to my heart and soul. I am born in Czechoslovakia, raised in the US… Boston, Mass. My adult life, I have lived in Sweden. Made my family here. 5 kids and 8 grandkids. My oldest child, Susan, died when she was 11 years old. Life has been beautiful between gratitude and grief. But you know this place because you have the knowing. And I recognize you there. And I love you for it. I see you too.
Thank you, Rachel. I’m happy you find some happiness in those books.
What you said, Barbara--absolutely, and absolutely true (and marvelous)!
If you don't want to celebrate, don't, if at all possible. I have had recent years where I metaphorically made a blanket fort and stayed there until all the holly jolly went away. If you feel like that, I echo Barbara--do what you need to do, as much as you are able (if you have others depending on you to be there, I get that). But take care of yourself. It's crucial. This time of year can be so painful.
This year, for the first time in a few, I actually have been eager to celebrate, and have been since November. When joy arrives for you again, grab it!
Merry and happy and joyous everything to everyone, whatever that means to you, even if it means you eat cheese and crackers inside a blanket fort and binge on books. Do what heals.
I’m glad to hear you’re on the other side, Sharona.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas. We went to The Island in Pigeon Forge for Christmas Eve last night. It's the first time we've done something on Christmas Eve since we've been together and we're considering doing it every year. I'm glad one of your just cuz activities turned into a family tradition. I'm thinking about reading the day away today and ignoring the I Should Be Writing mantra.
That sounds like a great tradition!
I love all of your writing Barbara, both here and in your books. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment! Merry Christmas to you and your family. ❤️ Laurie
Thank you so much, Laurie.❤️
Thank you!
Merry Christmas!
Lovely, Barbara! Merry Christmas!
What a lovely comment. I hope you had a wonderful holiday tto.
Thank you for this. This has been a tough week for me for several reasons. I just read this essay and I kind of sighed and felt like it was going to be okay.
Wishing you a season and a year as beautiful as the words you write. ✍️ 🌲
Merry Christmas to you, Barbara! 🎄❤️
Thank you and Merry Christmas. My prayer is that God continues to Bless you for blessing so many!