Home For Christmas

Home for Christmas!
Every mother's wish.
It is the best gift ever to hear, "Hey, Mom. I'll be home for Christmas."


Through the years, as my five left the nest, I remember -


I so looked forward to Christmas break.
"When will you be home," I'd ask.
I was always so excited for that one in college, that one who moved away,
to come home for Christmas.
I'd listen for a car to pull into the driveway.
I'd rush to the door to welcome
hugs and luggage.
Home for Christmas!


Then, there was Caleb.
"When will you be home," I'd wonder - holding my breath.
I say God was so merciful and gracious to me.
Caleb got to come home most of the Christmases he was in the Marines.
We'd drive to the airport to pick him up.
I'd keep a sharp eye on the people coming up the escalator, looking for that
one who was a little taller than most, standing straight and tall.
When I'd see him, I'd rush over to hug him.
Home for Christmas!


There were Christmases without him - like when he was deployed.


It was during those times - especially that first deployment, that this song spoke to my heart.
When I'd hear "I'll Be Home For Christmas," I'd think of Caleb.

Caleb would tease me about Christmas.

"There better be snow," he'd say.

Christmases have come and gone, and my five have grown up.

It's not always possible for all of us to be together at Christmas,

but I know the love is there.

We talk, we send presents, we are a family.

And about Caleb?

I know. He'll be spending Christmas with Jesus.

I play "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on the piano for him, and sing it if I can.

Anytime I hear it, I think of all the Christmases we shared,

the Christmases when he was home.

Yes, Caleb. I know you'll be home for Christmas - in my heart, in my dreams.

Merry Christmas my son.
Till we meet again -

I love you.








Copyright © 2016 Diane Homm. All Rights Reserved.