Day 960
This afternoon I was down in the basement when this little green guy caught my eye. A “Moon Goon,” part of the Troll Doll franchise, was one of my favorite things as a child. As I picked it up, the strangest thing happened… for a mere instant, I was thrown back in time and felt the strongest childhood pull. For a few seconds, it was almost as if I had time traveled. It was amazing and then the feeling dissipated and I was left holding my little green toy.
Taking a moment to think back on his little house, the “Velveteen Rabbit” REAL joy he brought and that long-ago, magic-believing little girl, offered a flood of memories…
Back in the day, our dear hometown hosted a Couples Club Dance at Green Haven County Club each New Year’s Eve. ‘Dressed to the nines,’ my parents would deliver us into the very capable hands of my very own Nanny across the driveway for a sleepover! Our bags were packed, our toys and stuffed animals secured as we bravely stood in the doorway and waved farewell to Mom and Dad. I can recall being homesick, the sound of the furnace kicking on, the smell of freshly baked cookies and the lovely breakfast the next morning. That little Moon Goon was most likely part of the entourage.
As the years flowed on, the sleepovers ceased, but celebrating with my beloved Nanny on New Year’s Eve continued. Every year, well into her 90s, this wonderful lady would stay up until midnight to hug me into the new year. I was there every year to soak up all those memories-in-the-making. What a gift.
Tonight, we will celebrate at home with our Goldens. Memories will most certainly flood my heart with gratitude evident as we look back, embrace the present and look toward the future.
As I place my little Moon Goon in a place of safety (from loving Golden jaws), I will count my blessings and anticipate the year to come. The only resolution made will be to honor the many gifts in life and to be aware of blessings past, present and future. The Goldens will certainly be a part of that!
Happy New Year from my “Halo of Golden!”
