This is a spiritual time of the year for many people. For me, today is Christmas Eve day. It brings back memories of the times when my parents were doing well. They were wonderful grandparents who loved having Christmas Eve at their home. My children and I would eagerly await the evening newspaper, which always ran Clement Moore's "'Twas the night before Christmas" on the frontpage. We'd read that poem before we packed up and went to Grandma and Grandpa's house - not through the woods, but there was generally plenty of snow. One year we even saw "Santa" going up to someone's house, and my little boy was worried that we were too late. You're not supposed to see Santa. I told him that Santa was probably at that house early because they had a special need for it. He seemed satisfied.

This season is a time for memories, good and not so good. We had several loved ones die around the Christmas season. One year, my youngest son voiced the concern that there would be another funeral at Christmas. So, feelings are mixed. I've always tried to keep this time of year as low-key as possible, but in our culture, there is only so much you can do. During their grade school years, my kids sang in the early Christmas Eve church service. We had two sets of elders and my first "elder care" person, my next-door neighbor, Joe, to think about. We did what we could. What is, just is. I've always tried to keep expectations of a perfect holiday season at a minimum. Yet, there were disappointments. That is life.

For today, after working at my "day job," I'll run home and do a few things in preparation for Christmas Day. My sons, my daughter-in-law and I had a lovely Christmas Eve celebration a day early - yesterday - since it was Sunday and was more relaxed. Yet, as I drive home from work tonight, I know I'll be feeling the Christmas Eve spirit in the air. I'm hoping I am aware of the beauty. I'll make an effort to be aware, no matter how tired I am. For Christmas Eve is Christmas Eve.

All the best to you all, dear Readers. I appreciate you more than I can say.

Carol