Holiday Greetings!

Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is right behind! We had a houseful of company all last week and a table full on Thanksgiving Day, something for which I am very grateful. Our grandkids are teens and will all be out of high school in less than two years. Having everyone together is a blessing. We had a wonderful time preparing a turkey feast, watching KPop Demon Hunters (who knew?), and playing games.

Then, on Friday, I hosted a 50th Wedding Anniversary party for my brother and sister-in-law. I prepared a full barbecue brisket meal, with all the typical fixin’s. Teenage boys eat a lot! Let’s just say my kitchen hasn’t seen that much food cycle through it in such a short period all year.

Having my daughter, her husband, and two grandsons here all week meant we had help lugging the Christmas boxes down from the attic and setting up the tree. They also helped string up a few lights outside. We usually wait until after Thanksgiving, but we were happy to take advantage of having three additional strong men to help out.

Tomorrow I have back surgery, which will keep me confined for a bit, though I don’t know how long. Meanwhile, I hope to get some reading, writing, and weaving done. We’ve suggested a low-stress Christmas to our children this year. Instead, I’ve made some charitable donations for Giving Tuesday and will do limited online shopping. I’m letting more things go than I usually do, which is hard.

Nightfall comes early during this season, and one of my favorite routines is lighting scented candles to dispel the darkness. Here’s hoping each of you finds light in dark times and hope for a bright tomorrow.