It is such an emotional time of the year. I love my family and friends so much, and the seasonal music just makes my heart soar. I love the church services so so much. I am so thankful for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be well, Jennifer.
The season really does pull on the heartstrings! It's emotional, happy and sad. I too love the seasonal music and all the beautiful displays of love and family. Blessings to you this Christmas and always! 🎄
I totally understand what you’re saying, and my continued condolences as you process your grief. My mom died in 2011, and while I have loved many Christmases since then, especially spending holiday time with my nephews, there is an element of nostalgia for the good old days, plus the loss of potential good new days with those who are gone, that is a weight that lingers, even as we do our best to carry on. My dad also just died very suddenly a couple months ago. I was determined to try to still host a nice Thanksgiving for my sibling and their family, but they all got sick and couldn’t come. So I have no expectations for Christmas this year other than just trying to find some happiness where I can, if family gatherings work out. Happy Holidays, and good luck with the changes in the new year.
Nora, I am so sorry for your recent loss of your dad. That had to have been quite a shock and a difficult thing to process. It will take time, as you know from the loss of your mom. My heart goes out to you, and i hope things work out this Christmas and you can get together with family. 🎄
Hugs to you Catherine. I know you have suffered the loss of loved ones and know the resulting pain during the holidays. I hope you are finding ways to celebrate with new traditions, while remembering the past joy. Sending you love.
We too have our tradition. The 24th is lunch/dinner at my parents and we unwrap all each others gifts. The 25th is Our Day, we wake up, make coffee, and sit around the Christmas tree unwrapping Santa's gifts and gifts from each other. While Elf the movie plays. This has been our tradition since my oldest was born on the same year Elf the movie was released. So 20 years. We eat whatever leftovers or I make finger food for the rest of the day.... I look forward to it, every year. The kids love it too and will not start unwrapping until the movie starts playing. They say it's all they've ever known, Elf the movie while unwrapping Santa's gifts with each other. Love it!!
Christmas is my favourite time of the year. I miss my family members all the time, but it hits really hard when we sit at the dinner table for Xmas dinner & there are empty chairs. We were a family of 7, but now its only 3, but we have a toast to them & try to enjoy the day. Merry Christmas to all ❤
Dear Jennifer~ You are loved and appreciated. I understand what you mean. I’m with you 100% on just wanting family for Christmas. As always wishing you the best, sending you lots of prayers, and a big warm Christmas hug. You’re the sweetest of souls. Take care, ~Christina from SoCal
Merry Christmas Jennifer. I so understand what you’re going thru and maintain that Florida is a WEIRD place to be for Christmas. But agree that being with the people you love is what’s most important. Sending hugs and hope to see you in the new year! ❤
So happy to see and hear from your sweet self ❤️🎄💚. The Holidays are so wonderful yet challenging for many of us. Regardless of our past memories, good and bad, we all need to be grateful for what we have and find others who we all can lend a helping hand to bring them some happiness and surprises. Thank you for showing your North Michigan Avenue adventures! I lived on Oak Street for years and that part of the Chicago experience always provides fun and a those crazy winds 😂😂. Jennifer, we are all combinations of our experiences and showing love to our fellow man. May 2024 bring you and your Family peace and happiness. Happy New Year, from one of your loyal Fans, ❤️🥂💃🎄💃🥂💚
Oh Jennifer, I really understood your feelings so much. My mom passed very suddenly last Dec 9th, and it was just so hard. I thought I would feel ok, but I have just been down, and it makes me crazy bc my oldest child is home from college and I want to just be happy and goofy like before she died. It's just so hard.
So glad it will be a nice family Christmas! I remember when you were in Chicago & had that gift exchange with all your friends. That was fun. And remember you will have your girls marry someday & have the joy of grandbabies. The best is yet to come. Merry Xmas.
It's sure a magical beautiful season, yet a very nostalgic time of year which invokes so many various memories and thoughts. We remember all the changes of life and when recent changes it can be very emotional. I understand and have complete compassion, and that is to be human and to have experienced life. HUGS Jen XO ~ you are gorgeous and awesome!!
Once your parents are gone, it’s certainly a new normal. My husband and I have lost all of our parents, and now we are the ones who have taken on their roles especially during the holidays.We suffered a major tragedy this year with the very unexpected death of our former son in law. Our daughter and grandson are devastated, but our son and daughter in law surprised with the news of a new baby due next month..to add to their family of a 12 and 9 year old! So, I have to believe that God watches over us and helps give us strength. Keep loving that family, Jennifer. You will be fine. I know from experience.❤
So glad you will have your girls with you for the holidays. I totally get what you mean about missing the happy family times with your parents when you were younger; I have a lot of fond memories of childhood Christmases as well, but divorce kind of played havoc with it all when I was in my late teens. I'm glad to have the memories of them all, but it definitely makes for a melancholy time of year, especially when you've lost a parent, and you've had *such* a rough go of it. Have you ever considered adding your own Gracie dupe to your household since you enjoy her so much? It wouldn't be the same pupper but you've clearly got a lot of doggy love to give. Hope you have a wonderful relaxing holiday and glad you were able to get some snow this year; I'm just a bit north of your old stomping grounds and we're looking at temps in the 40s/50s so no White Christmas this year up here either!
Happy Holidays. So good to hear your family will be together. Have you done a color and/or style analysis? I’m just gathering recommendations as it’s something I would love to do.
Merry Christmas! I totally agree with how you enjoy celebrating the holidays. Too is my last work day till after the new year so it will be soaking in family time.
I just love that you are honest with your emotions and took the time to just acknowledge the reality of where you are at. I have a feeling that as soon as you are with your girls…. The Christmas spirit will happen in a new special way. Thanks for modeling how to be genuine. ❤ Merry Christmas Jen! ❤
Thank you so much! It's not easy being open to the world... but I truly believe we have way too much "only show the good stuff" in social media and the world in general. If we could all acknowledge and celebrate the things we all go through, the world would be a nicer more kinder space. ♥️
Hope you have a Peaceful Christmastime with your family! ❤️ This will be our first Christmas without our kids in 32 years. They are all spending the holidays with their inlaws. And my mother passed this past week so it will be a LOT different…
I understand, friend, how you are feeling. Both of my parents have passed, also- my momma last October. She loved Christmas and every time I’m out shopping, I’ll stop in my tracks and think ‘ohhh my mom would love this’ only to realize I can’t buy it for her. Like you, though, I’m working through it. Merry Christmas, friend.
Oh Ashley, I totally understand that shopping dilemma. I do the same thing! I'm so sorry for your losses and hope you find peace this Christmas. It's not easy, and I wish you the best! Merry Christmas.
Thank you for bringing this up and longing for Christmas past. Year before it was Mom and this year without my husband and watching my Dad slip away from me. with dementia. My tears joined yours!! I’m 58 too! I I was in Chicago too but had to sell our home to move to Ohio to be close to family. Living alone is painful, so I’ve found connections with people,working,and finding ways to allow Jesus to fill the absence in my heart has helped. You make me so homesick for Chicago, such a beautiful city at Christmas!! You are the cutest couple! You go together perfectly! 🎄❤️🎄✨🎁✨🎄❤️🎄
Oh Maureen, my heart goes out to you. That is a lot of loss and such a difficult road to travel. We are in those years where everything changes. Even though no one has taught us how to deal with it all (no one possibly could), it's our job to go through it with love and grace and find new traditions to look forward to while cherishing the people we have while we still have them. ♥️ You are such a blessing to your Dad and your family. Not an easy choice to make...moving to help out and be with family...but you will be so glad you did when all is said and done. I'm glad you are making friends and finding peace. 🎄
My brother died on Christmas Day 2019 after a long fight with cancer. He was in hospice, and watching him decline was the most awful experience I’ve ever endured. He had said he didn’t want to die before Christmas, and he held on until Christmas morning. The pain is palpable. We make the most of the holidays for the children, but honestly, it will never be the same. My deepest condolences to you, Jennifer, and to your family.
Oh my goodness, I am so sorry you are going through that very difficult grief. My heart breaks for you. What an amazing soul to have tried to hang on as long as possible to make things better for you. That is love. ♥️
Happy Holidays my dear friend. May Gracie bring you cuddles and kisses for Christmas! I completely understand your feeling after the losses. I think you already know this but both my parents passed before I was 40. They both had large families but since they were older when I was born all of my many ants and uncles are all gone as well. It’s just me and Andrew and the dogs. Thanksgiving was the big holiday for my family and Andrew keeps it going by making a huge meal with everything home cooked to perfection for just the two of us! OK well of course the dogs get some too
Oh Sarah, I adore you! I am always reminded of how fortunate I was to have had my parents in my life for as long as I did. I don't take that for granted. I loved the dance video you sent with you and Oliver! What a smart and handsome pupper!! We all miss you and hope we can see you the next time we are in the area. Gracie says hello 💕
I lost my Dad 6 years ago and my Mom 3 years ago,l miss them terribly. It is weird but l go through this feeling alot that l am an orphan,cause both my parents are gone.l don't have alot of family either.Have a great Christmas and new year.
Yes, Elaine, I've had the orphan thought also. Losing my parents has made me feel untethered, like I'm just floating through life. It's a weird thought and feeling. No one can really be prepared for how losing loved ones will effect them. There is no manual to follow. It's a journey and we must find our way. I'm so sorry for your losses and wish you peace this Christmas and New Year.
I'm so sorry about losing both of your parents. I lost my brother 2.5 years ago, and my sister 5 months ago. They were both 54 when they passed. I don't have any siblings left. But yes, Christmas will never be the same, but we can honor them by moving ahead and living with gratitude and remembering them with love. I wish you a peaceful, joyful Christmas.
Oh my goodness, you are going through a heartbreaking time. I am so sorry. You are absolutely correct in that we need to move ahead and live with gratitude. Wishing you peace this Christmas and in the New Year.
Jennifer, I 100% understand where you are coming from emotionally, I am feeling the same for the same reasons.....Wishing more Joyous Days for You ahead.....Merry Christmas to You and Your Family....✌️💜💋
Wow! Took me four days, but I finally caught up with your last two years. I took a long break from a lot of social and missed you, but was determined to get back to the real world after the pandemic. So sorry for all your losses over the last two years, including your beloved snow, the places you grew up and your gorgeous home and of course, your precious parents. You have always presented yourself with grace and aplomb, no more so than going through all these life changing situations. Congratulations on your new home and your impending Christmas celebrations. Missed your monthly favorites and all your chats, so here's to a new year and new adventures...Scotland!!! and as I have lived in Mobile, Al. for 40 years, welcome to the south!!! I can relate to your culture shock as I am a San Francisco native and never thought I'd leave California, but as you say, here we are, there's that! And I'm loving that Samur BB...but I'm on ban island for the foreseeable future! Looking forward to seeing the closets too. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Jennifer.
A wise person once said to me when I was younger, "try to remember all the good times in life and try to pack the sad memories away." How true that is! I'm sure your parents would want to see that with you and the family and the smiles on your faces and the laughter and joy. I know it is hard though but remembering all the fun and good times just brings joy to your heart!! On a different note Jennifer, place an LED candle in your beautiful fish vase!!! Love it!! Have a fantastic time with your family!! ❤❤ Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and the family!! God bless you all!!! 😀😃
Bless your heart! Christmas certainly isn’t the same anymore, my parents are gone and I lost my son at 20 years old. I really miss them , but the Lord sees us through! I always enjoy your videos, you’re just down to earth, so I thank you for what you share! Merry Christmas 🎄 !
I am incredibly sorry for your losses. So heartbreaking. Thank you for your kind words. Wishing you all the love and peace this Christmas and the New Year can bring! 🎄
Thank you for sharing. My parents are gone and my heart aches, too. Holidays definitely don’t feel the same, but I try my best to create a “new normal “. Sometimes I feel so alone - thank you again for sharing.
I'm so happy to see you, I have been thinking about you and remembered about it being the time of year of the loss of your loved ones. I just want to say that I sympathize with you. I am soooo homesick for my family and Ohio winters. I struggle terribly with getting in the holiday spirit living in Florida. It's just not the same so hugs to you.
I’m so sorry it’s been a rough time of year for you. I’m happy for you that you get to spend it with your husband and your girls. Have a Merry Christmas.
I totally agree family and loved ones make the holidays so special. We always hold the ones that aren't with us in our hearts. Merry Christmas to you and your family!❤
I know exactly what you are going through Jennifer I just lost my Daddy to dementia last month and yes Christmas is very different and difficult 😞 But I’m pushing through for my children and my grand babies. I will be praying for you 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Merry Christmas, Jennifer! I’ve only been watching your channel for about a year, but I really enjoy your videos. PS - I live south of you in Jupiter. ❤
I think we're all of an age where we know exactly where youre coming from. Same thing happened to me and my sister, two christmases on the trot visiting parents in hospital 2018 and 19. Me and my sister just keep the traditions going, we use the crockery my mum used (special plates and stuff) and eat the things we always did (brandy cream etc), and its as if theyre with us. Only this morning reading the kids book Father Christmas i started crying remembering my mum and dad. Keeping the traditions going is a really really big help. Regarding the weather differences... no. I'd insist on getting an air b&b or something and i'd spend christmas week somewhere cold! I did christmas in Aus once... well suffice to say, i had cod in parsley sauce for dinner, it wasnt christmas. And our circumstances are relative - it doesnt matter how fortunate you are or not the feelings and emotions are just as important because its all relative. HAPPY CHRISTMAS - revive memories, and make wonderful new ones too!
Oh Emily, I completely agree! I'm so glad you have your sister to help carry on the traditions and keep the memories alive. I might look into spending the holidays somewhere snowy next year. That could be a blast! Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and all the joy the New Year can bring. 🎄
Jennifer, just enjoy the time with your daughter and grand-puppy. I so look forward to special times with my children. I’ve lived in Upstate NY for most of my life with the exception of the two years before I got married when I lived in Pompano Beach and Daytona Beach. I was so happy to move back to snow country. I look forward to your videos but enjoy the holidays with your family. We will all be here, when things settle a bit, because we love you too🎄🎅🏻🎄
I'm amazed at how much we have in common. We were about 40 minutes from each other in Chicago area, then I moved to Scottsdale and you to Florida. We are both in our 50s… my husband is a Purdue grad and you are a Purdue grad. We both lost a parent this year my dad to Alzheimer's as well. ❤We have small families and are happy empty nesters and even happier that 2 of our kids will be here on college break. We are doing remodeling too. Contractors just finished kitchen. Lots of prayers for you this holiday season! I am feeling similarly. And I miss downtown Chicago but not the gray skies! 😂
We do seem to have so much in common, Shannon! I wish we could have gotten together to meet when we were close. Oh my gosh, we are having so much trouble finding contractors here. I'll bet your new kitchen is fantastic and you are enjoying it so much! As for being in Chicago again a couple weeks ago...it was great, I love Chicago!! However, the relentless gray skies this time of year were awful! Never really noticed it as much until moving away. Wishing you and your family a lovely Christmas! 🎄
Thank you for sharing!! We are in Minnesota and flying on Christmas Eve with our daughters to Ft Lauderdale and we are all sooo excited! My oldest is home from college and then we have a 16 year old and 9 year old. Enjoy!
Merry Christmas, Jennifer🌲 Don't worry about the midwest snow. Here in southern MN, we will be enjoying a brown Christmas 🤷In fact, the ski hills are struggling with even a lack of cold to "make" snow. Enjoy your family wherever you celebrate! Be well❤
I have relatives in northern MN and they aren't getting snow either! I don't remember a time when they didn't have snow! Merry Christmas to you and yours ♥️
My plan is to sort through all my stuff and only put back the items I wear and love. I am tempted to just shove it all back in and be done with it, but that won't get me where I want to be. Oh so tempting, though!!
💞Coming your way. I really do understand your feeling that Christmas will never be the same..You do your best to make it as Special as you can for your family and yourself. I lost my dad Christmas Eve and most recently my husband. There are Special people in our lives that are really the heart of the Christmas celebration and without them it is such a challenge to have the same feelings as you once had.I guess it is a continuing journey to make it all a new normal.I love your vase and it is such a treasure piece to remember your trip. Wishing you and your beautiful family a Blessed and Joyous Christmas💞🎄
Oh Connie, I am so sorry for your losses. This has to be an incredibly difficult time for you. I agree that making new memories and traditions is the way to survive the loss of past joy surrounding the holidays.
Dear Jennifer, Christmas time is different for me too. I will be alone on Christmas. I don’t get to see my brothers and their families because they live far away. I miss seeing my nieces and nephews. I am sending you love and wishing you a peaceful holiday season with your family. Take care. 🎄❤
Hello Colleen. That is something I have not yet experienced...being alone at Christmas. I'm sure it is not easy if you are used to being with family. I hope you have some enjoyable things planned to make the day feel special! Watch a favorite movie, eat something delicious and indulgent, read a good book, take a long walk somewhere in nature, etc. Whatever you choose to do, I hope you find peace and joy. 🎄♥️
I know how you feel without your parents for Christmas . It’s the hardest part. If it is any consolation to know , it does heal in time. Enjoy your season with the new house, location, and year. It’s going to be better. My husband and I spent a Christmas vacation in Chicago with friends and stayed at the Drake and it snowed on cue!! Took a horse and buggy ride and it was Christmas blessings all around ,,still a favorite memory
Thank you for your kind words! I am doing my best to focus on all the lovely times now, because I know that nothing is forever. Your Chicago vacation at the Drake sounds picture perfect! So happy the weather held up its end of the bargain and snowed on cue! ❄️🎄😊
Oh Jennifer. I was thinking about you just the other day and wondered how you were doing with the holidays. I’m so sorry. Life is hard. I also was pondering Christmas lately. I always said it was my favorite holiday. And I do love it. I love my kids coming and gifts with the granddaughters. It’s magical. But it just isn’t like it used to be. And we also had a tragic death in our immediate family this year so that weighs heavy. I guess we just focus on our family and be grateful for them. I am thinking of you this season. I don’t get you and snow however! 😉. Take care, Jackie from Indiana
Hi Jackie! I am so sorry to hear you have had a tragic death in your family. That is heartbreaking. I guess the only thing we can be sure of is change. It's not always good change, but it's necessary. It really makes us hyper aware of how precious our time with loved ones is. Learning to be grateful for what and who we have, while still grieving is a balancing act that none of us are prepared for when it happens. I wish you peace and love this Christmas and into the New Year.
I lost my Dad 19 years ago...he had a heart attack and stroke within 24 hours of each other on Dec. 7th. He waited 7 days until my sweet mom found the strength to tell him she would be ok and that he could go 'home'. He passed away less than an hour later. I have struggled differently every year but as my own children all became adults (the 'baby' was 12 weeks old when Dad died) it has become different again. Your perspective is beautiful....sending you the quiet joy that I seek every year.
Sheila, I am honored to hear your story. That had to have been an incredibly difficult time for you and your family. As years go by, so much changes. I'm working on finding new things to look forward to each holiday season. Sending you love, joy and strength.
Thank you, Jean. Life is about change, and the older we get, the more things change. I just wish there was a better way to prepare ourselves for it all. I wish you happiness and peace this Christmas and New Year!
Lovely video Jennifer. Catches up with me that Christmas isn’t what it used to be with my parents, Grandma, extended family who are gone too. Good to remember those times, need to create new memories with our smaller family of two adult kids and their significant others. They are coming to Arizona and we will be playing games and eating good food too! Happiest of Holidays to you and your family!
Thank you. As life changes, we need to change along with it! Not easy, but definitely important. I'm so happy your kids and their loved ones will be there with you! Enjoy every moment! 🎄
Sending you gentle healing hugs, Jennifer. The holiday priorities you shared mirror my own. Holidays are about being with family and friends, enjoying the time together and surrounded by love and family traditions. I’m a Florida native who though now retired, still act like a kid when we have snow in the mountains. Change in life is inevitable, and I have great empathy for the many adjustments you’ve made. Wishing you and yours joy and love for the holidays and many bright blessings ahead in 2024. ♥️🕊🎄
Thank you so much! I'm happy to "meet" someone with my same joy of snowflakes. It's just magical! And in the mountains? Bliss! Yes, change is inevitable, and not always welcome, but it's our job to find new traditions and find things that make us happy! Wishing you everything wonderful ♥️
All true, life is constant transitions … losing loved ones, kids moving away … it’s never the same, it’s different. Still joyous but in different ways. To be honest it’s not easy and we have to work at reminding ourselves to find the joy!
Christmas hasn't been the same since I lost my daddy. Even though we have our three children and their partners and thankfully my mum with us at Christmas all having a fabulous time playing games and being together there seems to be a piece missing. Just keep doing what you're doing making special memories each year. You've had a lot happen in the past two years so give yourself time to heal and hold your beautiful girls and Jim close. Happy Christmas to you all. Xxxx
Thank you Jackie. It really is difficult to find a new normal when loved ones are missing from the special events. You are absolutely correct though. We need to create new memories and traditions to look forward to each year, while cherishing the people we still have with us. I'm so happy you will have the family together this Christmas and I wish you all the happiness, fun, good food and laughter you can stand!! xxxx 🎄
Growing up we would take the train down to Chicago during the holidays. As a kid I loved looking at all of the storefront windows decorated for Christmas. I think it was along the magnificent mile. Wondering if that still is a tradition.
❤❤ I hope the closets finally worked out today! 🤞🏻I understand all your emotions during this Christmas season and thankful you will have your daughters and Gracie there. You are a sweetheart! Merry Christmas and all the best for you and your family in 2024. 🎄🥂
I am just so excited to get my things back in the closet, but want to take my time to sort through it all and only put back the items that I actually wear and love. Tempted to just shove it all in and be done with it, but I really will try to take my time and do it right! Merry Christmas to you and yours! 🎄
Jennifer I absolutely get what you’re going through. It was so hard on me when my parents passed & family moved away (us included). The holidays do loose something when you start loosing several generations in a family. Hope you & your family have a Merry Christmas. 🎄
Thank you! I think it's all about remembering the past joy, but creating a new normal to look forward to each year. Wishing you a beautiful Christmas 🎄
Hi Jennifer Yes I think many can relate to that feeling at Christmas. I know after my dad died I didn’t decorate or put up a tree that first year my head just was not in it. It takes time and your losses are still so new. I hope you have a wonderful holiday with your girls and husband and of course Gracie. Merry Christmas 🎄🎁
Hi Lynn, Thank you so much. It's very hard, especially the first year without a loved one. It rocks your whole being to lose someone you've had your entire life, and it's good to allow yourself to deal with it however it works best for you. Wishing you all the love, joy and peace this Christmas 🎄
I can relate to what you are feeling. We just move forward and try to embrace whatever joy we can find in the season and with the family that remains. Wishing you and your family all the warmth of the season.
Indiana girl here that’s been in south Texas for several years. I miss snow so bad! Wishing you peace and joy this holiday season. I’m recently divorced after a couple of decades so things are feeling different for me as well. I’ve been watching you for many years, long before moving away from the Midwest, and you are absolutely one of the best people. Your kindness permeates the screen and I thank you. You always make me feel better no matter the topic of your video. It’s like visiting with a friend.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. So kind of you. I'm sure this Christmas is very different for you, and not an easy adjustment! I am sending you love and strength. Wishing you peace, joy and new beginnings this New Year ♥️
Yup, It doesn't matter where you are, warm or cold climate, its where your family is that matters. Life changes when you lose family members, I can relate, but I'm glad that your girls, your husband, and Gracie will be with you to help you thru. Merry Christmas !
I’m so happy you are going to be surrounded by love of your girls and husband for Christmas! you are blessed to have wonderful memories of your parents!
Wishing you a blessed Christmas with your husband, girls and Gracie! We are excited that our girls will be home, our youngest is flying in from Tokyo! 🎄
Thank you! You too! That will be so wonderful to have your youngest there with you all the way from Tokyo. Enjoy every moment with your girls and family! 🎄
Thank you! I'm so excited to get my things back in the closet!! I want to take my time to only put in the items I actually wear and sell/donate the items that don't fit or are not used often enough to justify the space they take up. I'm trying not to just shove it all in and deal with it later, because I know when "later" will come.... probably never. ♥️🎄
I totally understand about emotions surrounding holidays. My beloved cat just died on 12/03. And many years ago my father passed on 12/19. So they all are heavy on my mind and heart right now. It does take special effort to rise above the sadness. But your visiting family, fur and otherwise will make sure there is tons of joy spread. And, you, no doubt, will make their holiday very special. Wishing you a beautiful, endearing Christmas and a wonderful New Year, Jennifer.
Oh Regina, I am so sorry your sweet cat has passed. That is heartbreaking. And having your father pass right before Christmas is definitely very difficult, indeed. Loss is something we really are not prepared to handle...we just do our best when it happens. It hits us all differently, and we come through it a changed person...each time. I wish you a beautiful, peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.
It’s such a blessing to have your parents into our 50’s. You don’t always have to be cheerful and have the best Christmas every year. Some years it’s going to be hard because you miss your parents and that’s normal. It will get better naturally and in due time. Thank you for sharing and God bless you and your family.
So true! I am constantly reminding myself how fortunate I was to have had them in my life for as long as I did! My dad was 92! I could never have expected more. 💕
@@JustJennifer wow that’s amazing. I lost my dad in my late 40s and I’m lucky to still have my mom but I see people around me that have lost their parents in their twenties or even younger and it’s devastating in so many ways. I think your video really resonate with people because we all know it’s coming if we’re not dealing with that issue already and Christmas is especially hard while going through a loss. Hugs from The west coast Florida (San Diego) ❤️
I"m so happy you'll be surrounded by your immediately family with Gracie this year. This is our 2nd Christmas in The Villages (since moving here from GA) and it's really hard managing through all the changes. Hoping your holiday is wonderful.
Thank you Judy. I am planning to soak up all the fun and activity! How have you enjoyed The Villages? I've heard it is an adjustment but most people are happy there, I believe. Merry Christmas to you and yours 🎄
@@JustJennifer We love the golf cart lifestyle so it makes up for the challenges of living here. The biggest challenge is Florida itself for me and being away from my grandchildren. They are in GA and AL. But I'm loving this chilly weather so much! We were at Disney Springs yesterday and it was heavenly with the cooler weather.
I hear ya. It’s difficult. I feel I just go thru the motions for my girls and young grandkids. The losses become so much more intense this time of year. It gets so bad for me at times that just seeing Christmas decorations causes sadness and anxiety.
Yes, it is a tough time for so many people. I think making new traditions and not dwelling on the past Christmases is the best way to handle it. I wish you peace and joy!
@@JustJennifer Agree. I put on my happy face for the kiddos and have a little hot buttered rum and I’ll pop myself out of the funk. I’m just a little younger than you and lost my dad in 2002 when I was in my 30s. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on Christmas Eve. I wish I could say it’s gotten easier over the years, but it hasn’t. At least now I can talk about my memories of him with a smile but I miss him more each year. I hope you get to the stage where you can have happy memories but it’s still so fresh for you. I’m sorry. 😢
While watching this i am in disney and knowing you are too. Thinking about this weather. We skipped our day in the parks and came back to the resort and now just chilling in the room. Have a Merry Christmas . Just enjoy your channel.
Oh my! Yes, yesterday and last night were a bit intense. I see the sun is out today now, so I hope you can get out and about and enjoy! Merry Christmas! 🎄
I'm sorry for you and everyone who has lost a loved one. The holiday season is so difficult when you lose those closest to you. My dad is gone and it was my mom's anniversary yesterday. and it still hurts. Since losing my three sons the Christmas holiday that was once filled with joy and happiness are now sweet memories that keep me holding on. I miss them so much that I cannot put it into words. I am so very blessed to have six grand boys that I love dearly and treasure. Each of them are so special!! I never want to sadden anyone's Christmas or take away anyone's joy so I act throughout the holidays and smile and laugh while I'm dying inside. At times I think I should receive an Academy Award for my performance. I try to create a joyous and special Christmas for my grandsons because they are my world and they deserve the very best of life! I would give anything to see my sons just one more time but if I knew it was the last time, I would hold them tight and never let them go. On Christmas morning I will close my eyes and see their beautiful smiles and listen closely to hear their laughter from past Christmas's. We loved Christmas and would play games, go sledding, shopping. have Christmas music playing all the time and eat our favorite treats. I know that I'm not alone and I pray for everyone who is missing someone and I will hold them close to my heart. Happy Holidays and Blessings to you and may there be Peace in the World!
Oh wow, you have me in tears. My heart feels heavy while I'm typing this to you. I hope you have a blessed Christmas with the Grandbabies and I am so sorry for the lose of your sons. May they smile down at you and your loving heart this Christmas and every other Christmas going forward.
Oh Darlene, I am in tears and want to thank you for sharing your story. I am incredibly sorry for all the immense loss and pain you've suffered. I can't imagine the grief you've experienced. Your 6 grandsons are immeasurably blessed to have you in their lives, as it's obvious you cherish them and do your utmost to make their lives happy and safe. On Christmas morning, I too will send love to you and your sons and parents in heaven. Your strength has touched me and you are an inspiration. I wish you a peaceful and lovely Christmas and all the joy the New Year can bring.
Thank you Jennifer. Your kind and thoughtful words touched my heart. I'm wishing you and your family a joyous and beautiful Christmas. Before you open your eyes on Christmas morning, picture your mom and dad and whisper Merry Christmas. I hope you feel chills running up and down your spine. I know my boys will be with me so I won't be alone, but then again I know they are always with me but it's a little more special on Christmas morn. I will see my grandboys the day after and we will have a very special, joyous and blessed day! Joy and Peace to the World. @@JustJennifer
It is such an emotional time of the year. I love my family and friends so much, and the seasonal music just makes my heart soar. I love the church services so so much. I am so thankful for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be well, Jennifer.
The season really does pull on the heartstrings! It's emotional, happy and sad. I too love the seasonal music and all the beautiful displays of love and family. Blessings to you this Christmas and always! 🎄
I totally understand what you’re saying, and my continued condolences as you process your grief. My mom died in 2011, and while I have loved many Christmases since then, especially spending holiday time with my nephews, there is an element of nostalgia for the good old days, plus the loss of potential good new days with those who are gone, that is a weight that lingers, even as we do our best to carry on. My dad also just died very suddenly a couple months ago. I was determined to try to still host a nice Thanksgiving for my sibling and their family, but they all got sick and couldn’t come. So I have no expectations for Christmas this year other than just trying to find some happiness where I can, if family gatherings work out. Happy Holidays, and good luck with the changes in the new year.
I'm so sorry for your lose.
Nora, I am so sorry for your recent loss of your dad. That had to have been quite a shock and a difficult thing to process. It will take time, as you know from the loss of your mom. My heart goes out to you, and i hope things work out this Christmas and you can get together with family. 🎄
Hugs to you Jennifer. And everyone relating; to everyone who rides it out in silent tears unseen. You’re not alone; there is so much love around you.
Hugs to you Catherine. I know you have suffered the loss of loved ones and know the resulting pain during the holidays. I hope you are finding ways to celebrate with new traditions, while remembering the past joy. Sending you love.
Merry Christmas to you and your family. We will be going to Florida for 3 weeks in January. Hope it is good weather. God bless.
Hey ' Jennifer ', really nice video! I was wondering if I can help you to edit your videos and also make highly engaging shorts out of them.
Such a relatable video post - sending you lots of love and joy this Holiday season! 💜
Thank you! Sending the same to you and yours!
We too have our tradition. The 24th is lunch/dinner at my parents and we unwrap all each others gifts. The 25th is Our Day, we wake up, make coffee, and sit around the Christmas tree unwrapping Santa's gifts and gifts from each other. While Elf the movie plays. This has been our tradition since my oldest was born on the same year Elf the movie was released. So 20 years. We eat whatever leftovers or I make finger food for the rest of the day.... I look forward to it, every year. The kids love it too and will not start unwrapping until the movie starts playing. They say it's all they've ever known, Elf the movie while unwrapping Santa's gifts with each other. Love it!!
I love this!! Thank you for sharing your story. When you find a tradition that makes everyone happy, it's the best!! Merry Christmas 🎄
Merry Christmas to you and your family. 🎄
Christmas is my favourite time of the year. I miss my family members all the time, but it hits really hard when we sit at the dinner table for Xmas dinner & there are empty chairs. We were a family of 7, but now its only 3, but we have a toast to them & try to enjoy the day. Merry Christmas to all ❤
We have a lot in common! I wish for you and your remaining loved ones a happy and blessed Christmas and New Year. ♥️
Dear Jennifer~ You are loved and appreciated. I understand what you mean. I’m with you 100% on just wanting family for Christmas. As always wishing you the best, sending you lots of prayers, and a big warm Christmas hug. You’re the sweetest of souls. Take care, ~Christina from SoCal
Hello Christina! Yes, I just need my people. The rest is just icing on the cake. Sending you love and peace this Christmas and in the New Year! Hugs 🎄
Merry Christmas Jennifer. I so understand what you’re going thru and maintain that Florida is a WEIRD place to be for Christmas. But agree that being with the people you love is what’s most important. Sending hugs and hope to see you in the new year! ❤
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Jennifer and family!🌲🎊 Praying that your Holidays are filled with love, peace and joy!🎅🌲✨️🎊⛄️
Thank you so much! I wish the same to you and your loved ones. 🎄
Wishing you and your family a very merry Christmas ❤
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas, Jennifer. Hugs and blessings from Australia.
So happy to see and hear from your sweet self ❤️🎄💚.
The Holidays are so wonderful yet challenging for many of us.
Regardless of our past memories, good and bad, we all need to be grateful for what we have and find others who we all can lend a helping hand to bring them some happiness and surprises.
Thank you for showing your North Michigan Avenue adventures! I lived on Oak Street for years and that part of the Chicago experience always provides fun and a those crazy winds 😂😂.
Jennifer, we are all combinations of our experiences and showing love to our fellow man. May 2024 bring you and your Family peace and happiness.
Happy New Year, from one of your loyal Fans,
❤️🥂💃🎄💃🥂💚
Very well stated!! Yes to all of it. ♥️ Wishing you love and peace this Christmas and throughout the New Year 🎄
Merry Christmas from Germany🤶🏻🎅🏻wish you and your loved ones joyful holidays 😘
Merry Christmas. Enjoy your family. ☺️💗
Thank you! Merry Christmas to you 🎄
Oh Jennifer, I really understood your feelings so much. My mom passed very suddenly last Dec 9th, and it was just so hard. I thought I would feel ok, but I have just been down, and it makes me crazy bc my oldest child is home from college and I want to just be happy and goofy like before she died. It's just so hard.
Aww love your video so heart felt. Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family. Enjoy your time with family.
So glad it will be a nice family Christmas! I remember when you were in Chicago & had that gift exchange with all your friends. That was fun. And remember you will have your girls marry someday & have the joy of grandbabies. The best is yet to come. Merry Xmas.
It's sure a magical beautiful season, yet a very nostalgic time of year which invokes so many various memories and thoughts. We remember all the changes of life and when recent changes it can be very emotional. I understand and have complete compassion, and that is to be human and to have experienced life. HUGS Jen XO ~ you are gorgeous and awesome!!
Once your parents are gone, it’s certainly a new normal. My husband and I have lost all of our parents, and now we are the ones who have taken on their roles especially during the holidays.We suffered a major tragedy this year with the very unexpected death of our former son in law. Our daughter and grandson are devastated, but our son and daughter in law surprised with the news of a new baby due next month..to add to their family of a 12 and 9 year old! So, I have to believe that God watches over us and helps give us strength. Keep loving that family, Jennifer. You will be fine. I know from experience.❤
So glad you will have your girls with you for the holidays. I totally get what you mean about missing the happy family times with your parents when you were younger; I have a lot of fond memories of childhood Christmases as well, but divorce kind of played havoc with it all when I was in my late teens. I'm glad to have the memories of them all, but it definitely makes for a melancholy time of year, especially when you've lost a parent, and you've had *such* a rough go of it. Have you ever considered adding your own Gracie dupe to your household since you enjoy her so much? It wouldn't be the same pupper but you've clearly got a lot of doggy love to give. Hope you have a wonderful relaxing holiday and glad you were able to get some snow this year; I'm just a bit north of your old stomping grounds and we're looking at temps in the 40s/50s so no White Christmas this year up here either!
Happy Holidays. So good to hear your family will be together.
Have you done a color and/or style analysis? I’m just gathering recommendations as it’s something I would love to do.
Merry Christmas! I totally agree with how you enjoy celebrating the holidays. Too is my last work day till after the new year so it will be soaking in family time.
Jenn, you are NOT alone. Feeling it too. Hugs.
Thank you, Beverly. Hugging you right back ♥️
Do you notice that your "sculpture" is a fish with an open mouth
Yes, I sure do!
I just love that you are honest with your emotions and took the time to just acknowledge the reality of where you are at. I have a feeling that as soon as you are with your girls…. The Christmas spirit will happen in a new special way. Thanks for modeling how to be genuine. ❤ Merry Christmas Jen! ❤
Thank you so much! It's not easy being open to the world... but I truly believe we have way too much "only show the good stuff" in social media and the world in general. If we could all acknowledge and celebrate the things we all go through, the world would be a nicer more kinder space. ♥️
Hope you have a Peaceful Christmastime with your family! ❤️ This will be our first Christmas without our kids in 32 years. They are all spending the holidays with their inlaws. And my mother passed this past week so it will be a LOT different…
Oh my goodness! That is a huge change and will be quite an adjustment. I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. My heart is with you. ♥️
Merry Christmas! Enjoy your time with your family💕
Thank you! I plan to do just that!! 💕 Merry Christmas to you!
@@JustJennifer Thank you!
Hi. I love snow, too, and the frigid air, and brilliant blue skies. From, Spokane, wA.
Hi Melinda. I'm so happy I got to go back to IL for a quick trip in December and got to see some snow! Grey skies...but big snowflakes!
I understand, friend, how you are feeling. Both of my parents have passed, also- my momma last October. She loved Christmas and every time I’m out shopping, I’ll stop in my tracks and think ‘ohhh my mom would love this’ only to realize I can’t buy it for her. Like you, though, I’m working through it. Merry Christmas, friend.
Oh Ashley, I totally understand that shopping dilemma. I do the same thing! I'm so sorry for your losses and hope you find peace this Christmas. It's not easy, and I wish you the best! Merry Christmas.
So sorry to hear about your parents and the struggle with Christmas. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your husband and girls. 🎄
Thank you so much!
Thank you for bringing this up and longing for Christmas past. Year before it was Mom and this year without my husband and watching my Dad slip away from me. with dementia. My tears joined yours!! I’m 58 too!
I I was in Chicago too but had to sell our home to move to Ohio to be close to family.
Living alone is painful, so I’ve found connections with people,working,and finding ways to allow Jesus to fill the absence in my heart has helped.
You make me so homesick for Chicago, such a beautiful city at Christmas!! You are the cutest couple! You go together perfectly!
🎄❤️🎄✨🎁✨🎄❤️🎄
Oh Maureen, my heart goes out to you. That is a lot of loss and such a difficult road to travel. We are in those years where everything changes. Even though no one has taught us how to deal with it all (no one possibly could), it's our job to go through it with love and grace and find new traditions to look forward to while cherishing the people we have while we still have them. ♥️ You are such a blessing to your Dad and your family. Not an easy choice to make...moving to help out and be with family...but you will be so glad you did when all is said and done. I'm glad you are making friends and finding peace. 🎄
My brother died on Christmas Day 2019 after a long fight with cancer. He was in hospice, and watching him decline was the most awful experience I’ve ever endured. He had said he didn’t want to die before Christmas, and he held on until Christmas morning. The pain is palpable. We make the most of the holidays for the children, but honestly, it will never be the same.
My deepest condolences to you, Jennifer, and to your family.
I'm sorry to hear about your lose.
@@geogirlforever that is very kind of you, thank you.
Oh my goodness, I am so sorry you are going through that very difficult grief. My heart breaks for you. What an amazing soul to have tried to hang on as long as possible to make things better for you. That is love. ♥️
Happy Holidays my dear friend. May Gracie bring you cuddles and kisses for Christmas! I completely understand your feeling after the losses. I think you already know this but both my parents passed before I was 40. They both had large families but since they were older when I was born all of my many ants and uncles are all gone as well. It’s just me and Andrew and the dogs. Thanksgiving was the big holiday for my family and Andrew keeps it going by making a huge meal with everything home cooked to perfection for just the two of us! OK well of course the dogs get some too
Oh Sarah, I adore you! I am always reminded of how fortunate I was to have had my parents in my life for as long as I did. I don't take that for granted. I loved the dance video you sent with you and Oliver! What a smart and handsome pupper!! We all miss you and hope we can see you the next time we are in the area. Gracie says hello 💕
I lost my Dad 6 years ago and my Mom 3 years ago,l miss them terribly. It is weird but l go through this feeling alot that l am an orphan,cause both my parents are gone.l don't have alot of family either.Have a great Christmas and new year.
Yes, Elaine, I've had the orphan thought also. Losing my parents has made me feel untethered, like I'm just floating through life. It's a weird thought and feeling. No one can really be prepared for how losing loved ones will effect them. There is no manual to follow. It's a journey and we must find our way. I'm so sorry for your losses and wish you peace this Christmas and New Year.
Sending you hugs 🫂 and ❤😊!
I'm so sorry about losing both of your parents. I lost my brother 2.5 years ago, and my sister 5 months ago. They were both 54 when they passed. I don't have any siblings left. But yes, Christmas will never be the same, but we can honor them by moving ahead and living with gratitude and remembering them with love. I wish you a peaceful, joyful Christmas.
Oh my goodness, you are going through a heartbreaking time. I am so sorry. You are absolutely correct in that we need to move ahead and live with gratitude. Wishing you peace this Christmas and in the New Year.
Merry Christmas ❤
Can’t wait to hear about what may be coming your way. Life is really like a box of chocolates! Merry Christmas to you and your family. 🎄
Yes, the only thing we can truly count on is change! Merry Christmas to you, as well 🎄
Happy Christmas
Jennifer, I 100% understand where you are coming from emotionally, I am feeling the same for the same reasons.....Wishing more Joyous Days for You ahead.....Merry Christmas to You and Your Family....✌️💜💋
Stay healthy this holiday season!
Thank you Alicia. You too!
❤Love this video…I miss my parents every single day….Xmas is definitely a new normal every single year. Have the best Xmas with your family Jennifer❤
Thank you, Karen. It's not easy. I guess that is a testament to how much they impacted our lives with love. Merry Christmas 🎄
@@JustJennifer I completely agree!
Wow! Took me four days, but I finally caught up with your last two years. I took a long break from a lot of social and missed you, but was determined to get back to the real world after the pandemic. So sorry for all your losses over the last two years, including your beloved snow, the places you grew up and your gorgeous home and of course, your precious parents. You have always presented yourself with grace and aplomb, no more so than going through all these life changing situations. Congratulations on your new home and your impending Christmas celebrations.
Missed your monthly favorites and all your chats, so here's to a new year and new adventures...Scotland!!! and as I have lived in Mobile, Al. for 40 years, welcome to the south!!! I can relate to your culture shock as I am a San Francisco native and never thought I'd leave California, but as you say, here we are, there's that! And I'm loving that Samur BB...but I'm on ban island for the foreseeable future! Looking forward to seeing the closets too. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Jennifer.
A wise person once said to me when I was younger, "try to remember all the good times in life and try to pack the sad memories away." How true that is!
I'm sure your parents would want to see that with you and the family and the smiles on your faces and the laughter and joy. I know it is hard though but remembering
all the fun and good times just brings joy to your heart!!
On a different note Jennifer, place an LED candle in your beautiful fish vase!!! Love it!! Have a fantastic time with your family!! ❤❤
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and the family!! God bless you all!!! 😀😃
🎄🎄🎅🎅❤❤
Bless your heart! Christmas certainly isn’t the same anymore, my parents are gone and I lost my son at 20 years old. I really miss them , but the Lord sees us through! I always enjoy your videos, you’re just down to earth, so I thank you for what you share! Merry Christmas 🎄 !
Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry to hear about your lose.
I am incredibly sorry for your losses. So heartbreaking. Thank you for your kind words. Wishing you all the love and peace this Christmas and the New Year can bring! 🎄
Thank you for sharing. My parents are gone and my heart aches, too. Holidays definitely don’t feel the same, but I try my best to create a “new normal “. Sometimes I feel so alone - thank you again for sharing.
I'm so happy to see you, I have been thinking about you and remembered about it being the time of year of the loss of your loved ones. I just want to say that I sympathize with you. I am soooo homesick for my family and Ohio winters. I struggle terribly with getting in the holiday spirit living in Florida. It's just not the same so hugs to you.
I’m so sorry it’s been a rough time of year for you. I’m happy for you that you get to spend it with your husband and your girls. Have a Merry Christmas.
I totally agree family and loved ones make the holidays so special. We always hold the ones that aren't with us in our hearts. Merry Christmas to you and your family!❤
Happy Holidays sweet Jennifer ❤
The very same to you, Diane ♥️
❤❤❤
So good to see you! Hope that closet is now complete and that you enjoy every moment with your family!!!!🥰🎄💖
I know exactly what you are going through Jennifer I just lost my Daddy to dementia last month and yes Christmas is very different and difficult 😞
But I’m pushing through for my children and my grand babies. I will be praying for you 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I’m sorry for your loss dear.
Merry Christmas, Jennifer! I’ve only been watching your channel for about a year, but I really enjoy your videos. PS - I live south of you in Jupiter. ❤
Merry Christmas! I've not been to Jupiter yet, but hope to get some FL travels in soon. 🎄
I think we're all of an age where we know exactly where youre coming from. Same thing happened to me and my sister, two christmases on the trot visiting parents in hospital 2018 and 19. Me and my sister just keep the traditions going, we use the crockery my mum used (special plates and stuff) and eat the things we always did (brandy cream etc), and its as if theyre with us. Only this morning reading the kids book Father Christmas i started crying remembering my mum and dad. Keeping the traditions going is a really really big help. Regarding the weather differences... no. I'd insist on getting an air b&b or something and i'd spend christmas week somewhere cold! I did christmas in Aus once... well suffice to say, i had cod in parsley sauce for dinner, it wasnt christmas. And our circumstances are relative - it doesnt matter how fortunate you are or not the feelings and emotions are just as important because its all relative. HAPPY CHRISTMAS - revive memories, and make wonderful new ones too!
Oh Emily, I completely agree! I'm so glad you have your sister to help carry on the traditions and keep the memories alive. I might look into spending the holidays somewhere snowy next year. That could be a blast! Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and all the joy the New Year can bring. 🎄
A very Happy Christmas to you Jennifer and your family! Big hugs from Sydney Australia, where it's also boiling hot!!
Thank you! I'm sure boiling hot at Christmas is wonderful if that's the "norm" for you. Enjoy the sun and heat and Happy Christmas to you!
Jennifer, just enjoy the time with your daughter and grand-puppy. I so look forward to special times with my children. I’ve lived in Upstate NY for most of my life with the exception of the two years before I got married when I lived in Pompano Beach and Daytona Beach. I was so happy to move back to snow country. I look forward to your videos but enjoy the holidays with your family. We will all be here, when things settle a bit, because we love you too🎄🎅🏻🎄
Thank you, Denise. I will do exactly that! Spending Christmas with my daughters, husband, and grand puppy is the best gift ever! Enjoy your snow!! ❄️
I'm amazed at how much we have in common. We were about 40 minutes from each other in Chicago area, then I moved to Scottsdale and you to Florida. We are both in our 50s… my husband is a Purdue grad and you are a Purdue grad. We both lost a parent this year my dad to Alzheimer's as well. ❤We have small families and are happy empty nesters and even happier that 2 of our kids will be here on college break. We are doing remodeling too. Contractors just finished kitchen. Lots of prayers for you this holiday season! I am feeling similarly. And I miss downtown Chicago but not the gray skies! 😂
We do seem to have so much in common, Shannon! I wish we could have gotten together to meet when we were close. Oh my gosh, we are having so much trouble finding contractors here. I'll bet your new kitchen is fantastic and you are enjoying it so much! As for being in Chicago again a couple weeks ago...it was great, I love Chicago!! However, the relentless gray skies this time of year were awful! Never really noticed it as much until moving away. Wishing you and your family a lovely Christmas! 🎄
Thank you for sharing!! We are in Minnesota and flying on Christmas Eve with our daughters to Ft Lauderdale and we are all sooo excited! My oldest is home from college and then we have a 16 year old and 9 year old. Enjoy!
That sounds like a blast!! Merry Christmas, beach-style! 🌴
Merry Christmas, Jennifer🌲
Don't worry about the midwest snow. Here in southern MN, we will be enjoying a brown Christmas 🤷In fact, the ski hills are struggling with even a lack of cold to "make" snow. Enjoy your family wherever you celebrate! Be well❤
I have relatives in northern MN and they aren't getting snow either! I don't remember a time when they didn't have snow! Merry Christmas to you and yours ♥️
Ps YESSSSSS TO THE WHOLE WARDROBE VIDEO THING, and maybe of you putting your stuff back, fantastic!! !!
My plan is to sort through all my stuff and only put back the items I wear and love. I am tempted to just shove it all back in and be done with it, but that won't get me where I want to be. Oh so tempting, though!!
@@JustJennifer it's liberating having a good sort out though!!!! Exciting!!!!
💞Coming your way. I really do understand your feeling that Christmas will never be the same..You do your best to make it as Special as you can for your family and yourself. I lost my dad Christmas Eve and most recently my husband. There are Special people in our lives that are really the heart of the Christmas celebration and without them it is such a challenge to have the same feelings as you once had.I guess it is a continuing journey to make it all a new normal.I love your vase and it is such a treasure piece to remember your trip. Wishing you and your beautiful family a Blessed and Joyous Christmas💞🎄
Oh Connie, I am so sorry for your losses. This has to be an incredibly difficult time for you. I agree that making new memories and traditions is the way to survive the loss of past joy surrounding the holidays.
Dear Jennifer, Christmas time is different for me too. I will be alone on Christmas. I don’t get to see my brothers and their families because they live far away. I miss seeing my nieces and nephews. I am sending you love and wishing you a peaceful holiday season with your family. Take care. 🎄❤
Hello Colleen. That is something I have not yet experienced...being alone at Christmas. I'm sure it is not easy if you are used to being with family. I hope you have some enjoyable things planned to make the day feel special! Watch a favorite movie, eat something delicious and indulgent, read a good book, take a long walk somewhere in nature, etc. Whatever you choose to do, I hope you find peace and joy. 🎄♥️
I know how you feel without your parents for Christmas . It’s the hardest part. If it is any consolation to know , it does heal in time. Enjoy your season with the new house, location, and year. It’s going to be better. My husband and I spent a Christmas vacation in Chicago with friends and stayed at the Drake and it snowed on cue!! Took a horse and buggy ride and it was Christmas blessings all around ,,still a favorite memory
Thank you for your kind words! I am doing my best to focus on all the lovely times now, because I know that nothing is forever. Your Chicago vacation at the Drake sounds picture perfect! So happy the weather held up its end of the bargain and snowed on cue! ❄️🎄😊
Oh Jennifer. I was thinking about you just the other day and wondered how you were doing with the holidays. I’m so sorry. Life is hard. I also was pondering Christmas lately. I always said it was my favorite holiday. And I do love it. I love my kids coming and gifts with the granddaughters. It’s magical. But it just isn’t like it used to be. And we also had a tragic death in our immediate family this year so that weighs heavy. I guess we just focus on our family and be grateful for them. I am thinking of you this season. I don’t get you and snow however! 😉. Take care, Jackie from Indiana
Hi Jackie! I am so sorry to hear you have had a tragic death in your family. That is heartbreaking. I guess the only thing we can be sure of is change. It's not always good change, but it's necessary. It really makes us hyper aware of how precious our time with loved ones is. Learning to be grateful for what and who we have, while still grieving is a balancing act that none of us are prepared for when it happens. I wish you peace and love this Christmas and into the New Year.
I lost my Dad 19 years ago...he had a heart attack and stroke within 24 hours of each other on Dec. 7th. He waited 7 days until my sweet mom found the strength to tell him she would be ok and that he could go 'home'. He passed away less than an hour later. I have struggled differently every year but as my own children all became adults (the 'baby' was 12 weeks old when Dad died) it has become different again. Your perspective is beautiful....sending you the quiet joy that I seek every year.
Sheila, I am honored to hear your story. That had to have been an incredibly difficult time for you and your family. As years go by, so much changes. I'm working on finding new things to look forward to each holiday season. Sending you love, joy and strength.
😅I always enjoy your videos. Describing Christmases past is something we can all relate to. Have a wonderful holiday and Merry Christmas
Thank you, Jean. Life is about change, and the older we get, the more things change. I just wish there was a better way to prepare ourselves for it all. I wish you happiness and peace this Christmas and New Year!
Lovely video Jennifer. Catches up with me that Christmas isn’t what it used to be with my parents, Grandma, extended family who are gone too. Good to remember those times, need to create new memories with our smaller family of two adult kids and their significant others. They are coming to Arizona and we will be playing games and eating good food too! Happiest of Holidays to you and your family!
Thank you. As life changes, we need to change along with it! Not easy, but definitely important. I'm so happy your kids and their loved ones will be there with you! Enjoy every moment! 🎄
Sending you gentle healing hugs, Jennifer. The holiday priorities you shared mirror my own. Holidays are about being with family and friends, enjoying the time together and surrounded by love and family traditions. I’m a Florida native who though now retired, still act like a kid when we have snow in the mountains. Change in life is inevitable, and I have great empathy for the many adjustments you’ve made. Wishing you and yours joy and love for the holidays and many bright blessings ahead in 2024. ♥️🕊🎄
Thank you so much! I'm happy to "meet" someone with my same joy of snowflakes. It's just magical! And in the mountains? Bliss! Yes, change is inevitable, and not always welcome, but it's our job to find new traditions and find things that make us happy! Wishing you everything wonderful ♥️
All true, life is constant transitions … losing loved ones, kids moving away … it’s never the same, it’s different. Still joyous but in different ways. To be honest it’s not easy and we have to work at reminding ourselves to find the joy!
Well said!! I completely agree. ♥️
Always enjoy your videos. Enjoy your family and Merry Christmas.
Thank you, Diane. Merry Christmas to you and yours 🎄
Christmas hasn't been the same since I lost my daddy. Even though we have our three children and their partners and thankfully my mum with us at Christmas all having a fabulous time playing games and being together there seems to be a piece missing. Just keep doing what you're doing making special memories each year. You've had a lot happen in the past two years so give yourself time to heal and hold your beautiful girls and Jim close. Happy Christmas to you all. Xxxx
Thank you Jackie. It really is difficult to find a new normal when loved ones are missing from the special events. You are absolutely correct though. We need to create new memories and traditions to look forward to each year, while cherishing the people we still have with us. I'm so happy you will have the family together this Christmas and I wish you all the happiness, fun, good food and laughter you can stand!! xxxx 🎄
Growing up we would take the train down to Chicago during the holidays. As a kid I loved looking at all of the storefront windows decorated for Christmas. I think it was along the magnificent mile. Wondering if that still is a tradition.
Fun memories! Yes, that is still a thing to do. There is something so special about Chicago at Christmas!
❤❤ I hope the closets finally worked out today! 🤞🏻I understand all your emotions during this Christmas season and thankful you will have your daughters and Gracie there. You are a sweetheart! Merry Christmas and all the best for you and your family in 2024. 🎄🥂
I am just so excited to get my things back in the closet, but want to take my time to sort through it all and only put back the items that I actually wear and love. Tempted to just shove it all in and be done with it, but I really will try to take my time and do it right! Merry Christmas to you and yours! 🎄
Jennifer I absolutely get what you’re going through. It was so hard on me when my parents passed & family moved away (us included). The holidays do loose something when you start loosing several generations in a family. Hope you & your family have a Merry Christmas. 🎄
Thank you! I think it's all about remembering the past joy, but creating a new normal to look forward to each year. Wishing you a beautiful Christmas 🎄
I know just where you are coming from Jennifer. This will be the second Christmas without my mum and it is still very hard. Sending love and hugs x🎄
Wishing you love and peace this Christmas, Jill. It's so difficult to go through the holidays without the ones we love the most. ♥️🎄
Hi Jennifer
Yes I think many can relate to that feeling at Christmas. I know after my dad died I didn’t decorate or put up a tree that first year my head just was not in it. It takes time and your losses are still so new. I hope you have a wonderful holiday with your girls and husband and of course Gracie. Merry Christmas 🎄🎁
Hi Lynn, Thank you so much. It's very hard, especially the first year without a loved one. It rocks your whole being to lose someone you've had your entire life, and it's good to allow yourself to deal with it however it works best for you. Wishing you all the love, joy and peace this Christmas 🎄
I can relate to what you are feeling. We just move forward and try to embrace whatever joy we can find in the season and with the family that remains. Wishing you and your family all the warmth of the season.
Thank you. I wish the very same for you.
Merry Christmas 🎄 Have a wonderful time with your family.
Thank you! Same to you and yours. 🎄
Indiana girl here that’s been in south Texas for several years. I miss snow so bad! Wishing you peace and joy this holiday season. I’m recently divorced after a couple of decades so things are feeling different for me as well. I’ve been watching you for many years, long before moving away from the Midwest, and you are absolutely one of the best people. Your kindness permeates the screen and I thank you. You always make me feel better no matter the topic of your video. It’s like visiting with a friend.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. So kind of you. I'm sure this Christmas is very different for you, and not an easy adjustment! I am sending you love and strength. Wishing you peace, joy and new beginnings this New Year ♥️
Yup, It doesn't matter where you are, warm or cold climate, its where your family is that matters. Life changes when you lose family members, I can relate, but I'm glad that your girls, your husband, and Gracie will be with you to help you thru. Merry Christmas !
Exactly! I'll happily go wherever I need to in order to be with my family! Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones! 🎄
Have a wonderful Christmas with your family!
Thank you! I hope yours is wonderful, as well!
I’m so happy you are going to be surrounded by love of your girls and husband for Christmas! you are blessed to have wonderful memories of your parents!
Thank you so much! Yes, I am so grateful for all the years and memories and time I got to have with my parents.
So happy you will have your family around this holiday season as well as that cutie Gracie😊
Me too!! 💕 Thank you.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas with your husband, girls and Gracie! We are excited that our girls will be home, our youngest is flying in from Tokyo! 🎄
Thank you! You too! That will be so wonderful to have your youngest there with you all the way from Tokyo. Enjoy every moment with your girls and family! 🎄
Thank you! I'm so excited to get my things back in the closet!! I want to take my time to only put in the items I actually wear and sell/donate the items that don't fit or are not used often enough to justify the space they take up. I'm trying not to just shove it all in and deal with it later, because I know when "later" will come.... probably never. ♥️🎄
I totally understand about emotions surrounding holidays. My beloved cat just died on 12/03. And many years ago my father passed on 12/19. So they all are heavy on my mind and heart right now. It does take special effort to rise above the sadness. But your visiting family, fur and otherwise will make sure there is tons of joy spread. And, you, no doubt, will make their holiday very special. Wishing you a beautiful, endearing Christmas and a wonderful New Year, Jennifer.
Oh Regina, I am so sorry your sweet cat has passed. That is heartbreaking. And having your father pass right before Christmas is definitely very difficult, indeed. Loss is something we really are not prepared to handle...we just do our best when it happens. It hits us all differently, and we come through it a changed person...each time. I wish you a beautiful, peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.
@@JustJennifer Thanks, Jennifer. You are so right that we are forever changed by their absences.
It’s such a blessing to have your parents into our 50’s. You don’t always have to be cheerful and have the best Christmas every year. Some years it’s going to be hard because you miss your parents and that’s normal. It will get better naturally and in due time. Thank you for sharing and God bless you and your family.
So true! I am constantly reminding myself how fortunate I was to have had them in my life for as long as I did! My dad was 92! I could never have expected more. 💕
@@JustJennifer wow that’s amazing. I lost my dad in my late 40s and I’m lucky to still have my mom but I see people around me that have lost their parents in their twenties or even younger and it’s devastating in so many ways. I think your video really resonate with people because we all know it’s coming if we’re not dealing with that issue already and Christmas is especially hard while going through a loss. Hugs from The west coast Florida (San Diego) ❤️
Happy Holidays ❤💚💚❤️❤️Stay blessed my friend ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you Kristin!! Same to you. ♥️
I"m so happy you'll be surrounded by your immediately family with Gracie this year. This is our 2nd Christmas in The Villages (since moving here from GA) and it's really hard managing through all the changes. Hoping your holiday is wonderful.
Thank you Judy. I am planning to soak up all the fun and activity! How have you enjoyed The Villages? I've heard it is an adjustment but most people are happy there, I believe. Merry Christmas to you and yours 🎄
@@JustJennifer We love the golf cart lifestyle so it makes up for the challenges of living here. The biggest challenge is Florida itself for me and being away from my grandchildren. They are in GA and AL. But I'm loving this chilly weather so much! We were at Disney Springs yesterday and it was heavenly with the cooler weather.
I hear ya. It’s difficult. I feel I just go thru the motions for my girls and young grandkids. The losses become so much more intense this time of year. It gets so bad for me at times that just seeing Christmas decorations causes sadness and anxiety.
Yes, it is a tough time for so many people. I think making new traditions and not dwelling on the past Christmases is the best way to handle it. I wish you peace and joy!
@@JustJennifer Agree. I put on my happy face for the kiddos and have a little hot buttered rum and I’ll pop myself out of the funk. I’m just a little younger than you and lost my dad in 2002 when I was in my 30s. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on Christmas Eve. I wish I could say it’s gotten easier over the years, but it hasn’t. At least now I can talk about my memories of him with a smile but I miss him more each year. I hope you get to the stage where you can have happy memories but it’s still so fresh for you. I’m sorry. 😢
Merry Christmas Jen to you and the whole family!!! 🎄
Thank you! Merry Christmas to you and yours!! 🎄
*hugs* - Cheers to you and your family this Christmas season and a wonderful new year!
Thank you! The same to you and yours 🎄
While watching this i am in disney and knowing you are too. Thinking about this weather. We skipped our day in the parks and came back to the resort and now just chilling in the room. Have a Merry Christmas . Just enjoy your channel.
Oh my! Yes, yesterday and last night were a bit intense. I see the sun is out today now, so I hope you can get out and about and enjoy! Merry Christmas! 🎄
@@JustJennifer waiting in line at Soarin. Love this ride. Guardians is next
@@JustJennifer Merry Christmas sweet girl. Weather improved some today. We leave on Tues and I will be glad to get my puppy when I get home. Miss him
Have a wonderful time with your family! ❤
Thank you Janet! I plan to do just that! ♥️
I'm sorry for you and everyone who has lost a loved one. The holiday season is so difficult when you lose those closest to you. My dad is gone and it was my mom's anniversary yesterday. and it still hurts. Since losing my three sons the Christmas holiday that was once filled with joy and happiness are now sweet memories that keep me holding on. I miss them so much that I cannot put it into words. I am so very blessed to have six grand boys that I love dearly and treasure. Each of them are so special!! I never want to sadden anyone's Christmas or take away anyone's joy so I act throughout the holidays and smile and laugh while I'm dying inside. At times I think I should receive an Academy Award for my performance. I try to create a joyous and special Christmas for my grandsons because they are my world and they deserve the very best of life! I would give anything to see my sons just one more time but if I knew it was the last time, I would hold them tight and never let them go. On Christmas morning I will close my eyes and see their beautiful smiles and listen closely to hear their laughter from past Christmas's. We loved Christmas and would play games, go sledding, shopping. have Christmas music playing all the time and eat our favorite treats. I know that I'm not alone and I pray for everyone who is missing someone and I will hold them close to my heart. Happy Holidays and Blessings to you and may there be Peace in the World!
Oh wow, you have me in tears. My heart feels heavy while I'm typing this to you. I hope you have a blessed Christmas with the Grandbabies and I am so sorry for the lose of your sons. May they smile down at you and your loving heart this Christmas and every other Christmas going forward.
Thank you for your beautiful message. Wishing you and yours a very blessed Christmas.@@geogirlforever
Oh Darlene, I am in tears and want to thank you for sharing your story. I am incredibly sorry for all the immense loss and pain you've suffered. I can't imagine the grief you've experienced. Your 6 grandsons are immeasurably blessed to have you in their lives, as it's obvious you cherish them and do your utmost to make their lives happy and safe. On Christmas morning, I too will send love to you and your sons and parents in heaven. Your strength has touched me and you are an inspiration. I wish you a peaceful and lovely Christmas and all the joy the New Year can bring.
Thank you Jennifer. Your kind and thoughtful words touched my heart. I'm wishing you and your family a joyous and beautiful Christmas. Before you open your eyes on Christmas morning, picture your mom and dad and whisper Merry Christmas. I hope you feel chills running up and down your spine. I know my boys will be with me so I won't be alone, but then again I know they are always with me but it's a little more special on Christmas morn. I will see my grandboys the day after and we will have a very special, joyous and blessed day! Joy and Peace to the World. @@JustJennifer
Merry Christmas Jennifer!
Merry Christmas Wendy! Sending you love and joy this Christmas and New Year 🎄
Thank you for this heartfelt video. This is the first Christmas without my mom. It’s painful.
Brenda, I am so sorry for your loss of your mom. It is heartbreaking and I am with you. Wishing you peace.