This year is drawing to a close.  As we think of spending Christmas with our family, our thoughts also go to the reflections of 2021.  This year has been full of mostly joy for our family, with a few exceptions here and there.  We gained a son-in-law this year!  That was one of the highlights of the year as our oldest daughter married the love of her life.   Our youngest daughter was busy being awesome and being inducted into the American Christian Honor Society.  What a distinct honor, as it not only reflects her incredible grades but also her impeccable character as well.  Ah, sweet blessings from God above!

While we were protected from Covid-19, others have not been so lucky.  They either came down with it themselves or had a family member with it.  There has been wide debate on both sides for and against the vaccines, with each side having their reasons for being passionate about their perspective.

We lost our precious teacup Yorkie this year, which crushed my heart completely.   Baby was nine years old when she passed.   We were told early on that due to her smaller organs, she would not live as long as other pets.   Even still, we made sure to pack a whole lot of love into those years we had with her.

A family member was urged to have surgery and not put it off any longer, so that surgery will take place in the beginning of 2022.  Please pray for no complications, God’s hand on all staff treating and tending to them, and a speedy recovery.

Sadly, we have either lost friends this year or have drifted away from those we were once close with.  Things happen, and relationships either stand the test of time, or they don’t.  Either way, we are thankful for the lessons learned.  We hold the memories made close to our hearts, and we wish them well on whatever path they have chosen to go down without us by their side in life.

Family trips were taken, and we basked in the warm sun on beautiful islands!  From frolicking on sandy shores in Florida, South Carolina, and even Hawaii, too, we embraced travel once again when we were so limited in 2020 due to Covid emerging and shutting places down, crippling the economy.

Love was shared.  Happiness was found in hearts.  God brought us safely through it all, and here we are preparing to celebrate His birthday.

Let your heart not be troubled as you think of Christmas and reflections of 2021 with your family.  God is still in control, just like He has always been.  He’s still there on the mountaintop, and He will still be there when we go through valleys.

Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful, beautiful life and the family and friends we share it with.  May we keep Christmas in our hearts all year through.