I’m opening Christmas cards this morning. They are gifts from you to me. Thank you!
I am encouraged by your news, your sweet photos, your additions to family, and your faith. Bless you in 2024!
This will be a sort of Christmas letter to you. I work later today, at the hotel, and Cherie is working this morning. Ed is helping Grandma with washing dishes from last night’s Smorgasbord with Joe and his family.
My granddaughter and grandson blessed me last night—they are incredibly sweet and fun to be with!
I get to see my eldest grandson tomorrow.
It is the first time ever that I have been alone on Christmas day. But I know I am blessed. Things happen and you must accept them. It takes time to do so.
I have Corwyn and Yukichan here to keep me company. The cats have been in and out, in and out on this brown Christmas. Do you know how warm it is here? Amazing. We’ve had a warm December!
I am thankful. I haven’t had to plow, to shovel, to worry about icy roads!
My fire is on, and I am brewing tea in a beautiful mug that my brother and sister-in-law in New York got me for Christmas. My niece gave me some raspberry cookies, and I think I will splurge with them for breakfast.
Cookies for breakfast. I am a fan.
We had the traditional Smorgasbord last night: meatballs, potato sausage, rice pudding, Christmas cookies.
I got a visit from my brother-in-law and sister-in-law from Iowa last week, too, which was an extra boost! I hope to get down to Iowa to visit Brian’s family this week if weather cooperates.
Yesterday I received beautiful renditions of “Silent Night” from my Chinese friends. I was touched.
My sprained foot/ankle colored my week of preparation. I am much better, but the pain is still there and it frustrates me that I can’t take the dogs out for a walk.
My lack of exercise since our trip to Japan is lamentable. Must make some serious New Year’s resolutions!
Two of my cousins have passed away recently. This is always sobering. This year one of my aunts, and my last uncle passed. A distant relative who was a great friend to my mom and a real true supporter of Corgi Hollows passed away this fall, too. Sadness for my mom and me. Another relative passed two days ago. I am trying to accept this new era of my life. We all must face it as we approach old age.
I am blessed that my mom is in great health. I can see that she is gracefully slowing down. I am so blessed that Ed and Cherie are here with me, helping with things she needs.
Such a blessing!
Thanks for stopping by this Christmas. I felt that many of you did via cards and greetings. I am grateful for your friendship, your love, your support.
Count your blessings. Name them, one by one. See what the Lord has done!
MARANATHA!