Countdown to Christmas...

Three days before Christmas... I've decided to decorate my tree with all handmade items that my mother made. Since she passed away a few years ago, it's a nice tribute to her amazing talent and warm heart. I miss her. Since moving to Vermont, my lifestyle has merged into a slow, peaceful pace. It suits me... When I look out the window, all I see are snow covered evergreens, stonewalls and winter birds flocking around the bird feeder. I made a path through the woods and along the brook where I take my dogs for their daily exercise.

I'm very fortunate to have Christmas week off from work. I'll spend a few days in CT visiting my brother and hope to get a couple days of downhill skiing in when I get home. I've always enjoyed having time off around this holiday.

I had a great Christmas get-together with my friends a few nights ago. I have such a wonderful group of friends--I'm very blessed. They're a lot of fun, and it fills the void of not having a family of my own, especially since my parents passed away.

My biggest wish this season is for everyone to wake up one morning with a feeling of love, compassion and respect for all living things.... to open up their eyes and heart and be aware of what they can do to help the helpless--those that can't speak or make decisions for themselves.... to take responsibility and provide loving care for those they are in possession of. Why does this sound so simple yet so unattainable? I pray for this every day...