This Christmas felt so different. Don’t get me wrong we shared a lot of love and laughter and made wonderful memories baking cookies and tamales together. We spent time visiting my mom, sister, and nephew. Drove through the PIR Christmas lights, grateful for those moments of togetherness. And yet, Elias was missing. The excitement and joyful chaos he always brought to the holidays was so noticeably absent. In the quiet moments, his absence felt especially heavy. It’s funny how things change; I remember past Christmases wishing he would tone it down just a little. Now, we find ourselves missing that energy more than anything. We miss him deeply his laughter, his big heart, and the way he filled every room with life. Even so, we hold onto our faith, knowing that Elias is now in the presence of the Lord, whole and at peace. While our hearts ache here on earth, we find comfort knowing that God’s promises are true and that this separation is not forever. This Christmas carried both joy and ...