Blessings

Christmas is upon us and although we're celebrating the holiday away from our families, we were fortunate to see a good number of them at a pre-Christmas party at Gary's brother's house. I met Gary's other brother & his wife & kids for the first time and we had a delightful time. We saw the newest member of the clan again (haven't seen him since August!), and he's growing fast and just a little sweetheart! I was quickly warned to remove my glasses and earrings and sure enough, this little guy was quick to discover both! Gary's mom was trying to count all the great-grandkids and we all decided that as far as grandkids, Gary has all his siblings beat for the largest number of grandkids (10 & 2 more on the way)! This is actually a tough time of year for me, missing my dad who died December 23rd 13 years ago. This was his favorite time of year because he usually got to spend time with two of his three kids. I made it through yesterday with the help of a new "penpal" on line (Merry Christmas Nancy!) and my dear, sweet husband, who kept a close eye on me. My late husband was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor Christmas night 2005, which just adds to my sadness this week. I'm very thankful for such a wonderful new husband by my side. The only company we have this Christmas season is Dixie, our neighbor's dog from across the street. She's twice the size of our schnauzers and although she doesn't actually harm the kitties, she is totally fascinated by them. The only time she's exposed to cats is when she's staying with us. It's a challenge keeping them all safe. Dixie usually settles in after the first day. If she doesn't, it's going to be a very long 10 days! Poor little Abby doesn't know what to think of this big, strong dog, who keeps picking on her favorite Varmint kitty. Not to worry, Varmint does know how to use those claws! Abby is very much a dominant female and doesn't take kindly to anybody playing with HER kitties or toys. There's been some snapping, but I think they'll settle in. Dixie is such a sweetheart and Dixie has a brother who is a schnauzer, in fact I got Prince from"grandma." Unfortunately, grandma has MS & it would be disastrous if rambunctious Dixie knocks her down, so Dixie's here with us. (Besides, when you have 3 cats and 2 dogs, 1 more dog doesn't make a lot of difference!) Blessings to all this holiday season. Stay safe, warm, and remember dear ones both close and far away. It only takes a minute to pick up the phone and wish your most distant relative or friend a Merry Christmas!