Growing up my parents helped make the Christmas season a special time of year for me. From the incredible decorations and tree put up with artistic precision by my father to getting Christmas cards sent out by mom to the wonderful smell of fresh baked apricot and nut cookies to delicious mushroom soup made by my father. The Christmas Eve service at a packed church with a beautiful rendition of 'Oh Holy Night' that took you back to the manager. Having friends and family over after service at my parents house was joyous. Cookies, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, music and laughter ruled the evening. Christmas morning was incredible. The magic of opening gifts wrapped with the utmost care by my father brought a big smile to my face. And when I got older the joy of giving mom& dad gifts equaled then exceeded what I received. Then I enjoyed going to church on Christmas morning. Later in the afternoon we would head up to my aunts with what one could only describe as a decadent feast. My aunt could out cook anyone on the Food Network. Ham melted in you mouth. The most moist turkey you ever had. Chicken soup with homemade noodles. Apple and pumpkin pies that made you always want a second piece. After we went home I always fell asleep with a smile on my face. I was blessed that all three of my children were able to experience this as well. With all that being said my parents always made sure the focus was on the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Fast forward to today. My parents and my aunts and uncles have passed away. Unfortunately the last time I spoke with my cousins was when my mom passed. I have resigned myself to the fact that we probably will never get together again and that saddens me a great deal.
In 2011 my life took the best turn possible when I met and married my soul mate Valerie Geis Horosz Soon after that God blessed me with employment after looking for three years and in 2014 God saw fit to bless me with the best job ever in IT with Publix Supermarkets.
Valerie's parents remind me so much of my own. It was so hard saying goodbye to her father this year. I am so glad to be a part of this family.
My wife truly enjoys decorating the house for Christmas. Lights, decorations, garland, battery candles, and a beautiful tree with ornaments made by my dad. It looks fantastic !
In 2019 we had one of the most incredible blessings of our life as our granddaughter Eliana Grace Skaggs was born. Words cannot express the inexplicable and unbelievable joy she brings to our lives !
In 2022 just this past week we experienced another most incredible blessing when Adiella Mae Skaggs was born. We are over the moon excited, happy, and praising God for her and are on pins and needles until we can get back up to Ohio to meet and hold her - and Ellie too !
Five years ago in October I found out through a Facebook post that one of my cousins passed away. It really hit me hard. When I sent a sympathy card to her husband I remembered what he told me when my mom passed away - "we never hear from anyone anymore". It all makes sense now.
I wanted so desperately to recreate what my parents had. But I've come to the realization its gone. For one reason or another my family has splintered into their own units - with brothers and sisters only. Despite attempts to reach out to my cousins they have not responded.
It's up to Valerie and I to make memories for all our children and grand children - Will, Victoria, Andy, Peter, Jessica, Brian, Ellie, and Addie - to enjoy and remember. Whether it's a phone call or spending time with them the message is always the same - we love you !
The best part of Christmas to me is not presents but presence - the presence of Christ in our hearts and in our home.
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