thank you ancients

Thank you, ancients, for giving us so many of our Christmas customs of today.

As the sun diminished, many thought the world was waning.

But evergreens grew; thus, we have Christmas trees.

etc.

I welcome the shortest day of the year

welcome the return of sun

welcome winter

hope for snow or rain or both

wish all a joyous Christmas

celebrate family

celebrate the gifts of nature

celebrate the coming of a new year

the sun has set on the longest day of the year

new beginnings tomorrow

'tis the season

Auntie B (Patrick's name for Brooke) decided it was time to make Christmas cookies.

Patrick helped roll them out, cut them, and decorate them.

Auntie B is very patient.

Patrick wanted the dough, not the cookies.

He takes after Grammie.

The only reason to make Christmas cookies

is to eat the dough - of course!

Merry Christmas everyone.

welcoming the season

Papa, Josh and Patrick welcoming the new season

at Christmas tree lighting - and fireworks.

Patrick watched and watched

and then the big bangs - those that just make noise

started.

He put up his hand in the stop position

but kept watching even though

the sound was disconcerting.

Let this wonderful season begin

and be in the hearts of

each and every one of us.

Feel so lucky to have this new heart,

new eyes,

new soul,

to share Christmas with.