Month: December 2011

Christmas had barrelled down upon us like a northern blizzard. The season was a whirlwind of activity speedily blowing by us. Now New Year was upon us, but procrastination gripped me. Amid my retirement freedom from bosses, it was simply … Read more

The shepherds returned and spread the news of what they had seen. Who wouldn't, after seeing angels? What would you and I have done under similar circumstances? Here was a very special Baby which the angels had said was "the … Read more

As a small child, I had a fascination with angels, probably because whenever a nightmare woke me, my mother would come and pray for God to send His angels to guard me. Then she would say, "Darling, just look at … Read more

During the long, bitterly cold days of our northern winters, my ponies Frank and Mama wait and hope for a little consolation each day. They receive their regular rations of hay and oats morning and evening, but each day at … Read more

Some of my close friends found it difficult to celebrate Christmas this year. Last year, I, too, found myself dreading the season. Normally, I really enjoy seeing the coloured lights, attending the various carol concerts, and tasting the mouth-watering treats … Read more

This year, after we had our Christmas tree all decorated, we plugged it in, expecting the factory-installed lights to shine brightly as they had in previous years. But this year, they failed. Only the bottom half of the tree lit … Read more

We've approached a time of bustle — shopping, baking, holiday greetings, and home for Christmas. Why? Why are we celebrating Christmas? How would the average person answer that question? Tradition? Family? Love for hearth and home? Let's go back to … Read more

We all want to be home with our families for Christmas. In 1979, I wished I were home in Taiwan, but it was too distant and costly. I was in my second year as a visa student at the University … Read more

Preparation and patience — often these two do not go together. Preparation suggests activity, getting things done, perhaps working through a "to do" list. Patience, on the other hand, suggests waiting and, perhaps, slowing down. Each year, my children and … Read more

I have knitted a few sweaters, socks, and such for family and friends to open as Christmas presents. I am a steady customer at the wool shop, and while shopping, I meet other grandmothers selecting wool for baby shawls, afghans, … Read more