I sympathize with you. My mother died on December 19, 2002; it is still very difficult for me because I have to think of my seven year old, and try not to be sad for her sake. I just want you to know I know what it is like and I empathize with your pain.
Thank you. Sorry to hear of your loss, too. Although it's been 8 years now, when this time of year rolls around it's difficult not to think about it. And while I hadn't lived with my parents or been able to be with them at Christmas every year for a while, we had our traditions when we were together and without my father here it's not the same.
Stay strong, time does dull the pain somewhat, eventually.