The Christmas and New Year holiday was most pleasant this year, filled with the presence of loved ones nearby and the ongoing thoughts of those at a distance. The few days around Christmas was so busy that if was over before Susan and I knew it. Then it was wind down time as we slept our way into the New Year.
Louie was officially welcomed into the White family with the presentation of his own Christmas Stocking. Leo and Naomi dug into their rare and valuable stocking stuff while Susan, Louie and Tracy looked on.
Soon it was time for the real goodies as we moved to the living room. The clean presentation of the tree and gifts didn't last long as we took turns opening boxes and displaying our newest piece of clothing or grown-up toy for all to see.
On Christmas day I talked with all the boys in Michigan. I do miss not being with them over the Holidays but they and the grandchildren are always in my thoughts. Later in the day, after taking Leo and Tracy to the airport, and knowing that Naomi and Louie were enjoying family time with other loved ones, Susan and I drove to Athens and spent a wonderful afternoon with her mother, Claud. I sat back and enjoyed their mother-daughter banter as they shelled pecans, recalled pleasant memories from the past, and looked toward the future. Family relationships are so important but are not to be taken for granted. They are dynamic, fluid and ever changing. Those are things worth embracing for change is the path to continual growth.
Today is January 2, 2010. The start of a new decade. Hopefully one that brings a more peaceful world, a resolution of differences, an appreciation of other cultures, and an end to continued conflict.
But all is quiet in the Newton-White home. The Christmas tree is down and awaits recycling. Coveys of bluejays and cardinals flit around the yard and songbirds are competing at the feeder. The sun is bright, the air is clean and cold. It is a beautiful day to sit with eyes wide open, looking forward with optimism.
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