As many rose on Christmas morning, I am sure shouts of glee went up for toys received and given.  Prayers of thanksgiving and prayers of remembrance were raised.  A special breakfast was made for all those who came from near and far to fellowship together ‘one more time.’  For me, it was all of the above.  I am so blessed and fortunate to have that family that I have.  Although we cannot get together often and at times I find myself sending out ‘remember to stay in touch with each other’ emails’, I know that I am fortunate.  All of my siblings are still alive and in reasonable health.  We have not lost any nieces or nephews.  The family is still growing with the recent addition of a grand niece.  Yes, my family is truly blessed.  No we are not perfect and yes we tend to get on each others nerves from time to time but that’s all a part of the family dynamic.  This was a joyous Christmas for me.  My gift from my family was literally their presence.  I will never be able to properly convey to them the joy I felt and still feel from their love shown to me this year.  I hope and pray that your Christmas celebration, for those who celebrate Christmas, was a joyous one.  I hope that all those who celebrate Hanukah had a wonderful celebration.  As for those who are in the process of celebrating Kwanzaa, I hope that the upcoming year shows us all what our Nia (purpose) is.

Blessings and Happy New Year to you all!

~~~Malinda Gwyn~~~