Merry Christmas

Growing up, the holiday season was always "the most wonderful time of the year" for me. It was a time for family, true friends, warm hugs, good food, cheerful greetings, and delightful presents. The air just seemed different during this season - full of love, happiness, and warmth. It was perfect.

And then I became an adult. Responsibilities have kept me away from home for years, and instead of spending this time with loved ones, I would find myself working... Working to make Christmas and New Year happy and joyous for everyone else. It's not easy being the epitome of happiness when, deep down, you feel the exact opposite; but I had to do what I had to do.
And so the holiday season, for me, went from being "the most wonderful time of the year" to becoming the bleakest one.

And then along came HW. But HW has his responsibilities as well. Like me, he has to do what he has to do. I do understand all that, but still, this is me upon finding out that I won't be with HW this Christmas:

He still tried to make my night special though, and gave me my Christmas present to open at midnight. Thanks, baby. I do appreciate it, and knowing how you always seem to know what makes me smile, I'm sure I'll be making an update after I've opened my present. Haha!
Also, HW, I will make sure we celebrate Christmas together, though ours will be a bit delayed...

But you have to wear this:

Hahahaha!
But seriously, on the bright side, I will get to start the year off with a bang (and also some of the sweetest hugs and kisses. Hehe) with HW. Hooray for that!

Now I'm off to have Christmas dinner and drinks with my friends. True, I will miss my beloved family, friends back home, and my dear HW - but there will be other Christmases, and they will be happy, merry, and bright!
So to everyone out there, Merry Christmas!!!