Count Your Blessings

Hello everyone,

Hope the holidays have brought good tidings.  Mine have been bitter sweet, for it's difficult to enjoy this blessed season of celebration when there's so much heartache in the world. The Connecticut tragedy in particular really hit close to home.   I don't want to be the person who revives bad memories, but since I cannot make sense of the event, the least I can do is learn something from it.  You see, I am a complainer by nature and each Christmas seems to bring plenty of material.  This season for example, I hosted a party for about 30 people, took photos for our card and mailed them out, spent myself into oblivion purchasing presents for loved ones and devoted countless hours to wrapping the gifts.

 Normally I'd grumble about how hectic and demanding the season has been and essentially, would only address the negative aspects of Christmas, but not this year. The tragedy has taught me to focus on the  positive, for my life could be so much worse. I feel blessed to have so many friends in the bloggersphere.  Your support over the years has meant the world to me and although I don't express it often enough, I really appreciate each and every one of you.  In the non-cyber side of the world, I feel blessed to have so many people to buy for, to have the ability to throw a party for friends in an environment where we were able to celebrate the season together. Mostly, I feel blessed to be surrounded by a happy and healthy family. 

  In closing, I ask you keep the victims of Connecticut in your thoughts and prayers.  Please let this tragedy serve as a reminder to count your blessings.  I’d be interested to know what you’re thankful for.  Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.  Be back in 2013. Until then, happy writing.