Merry Christmas!

Just got back from having a wonderful evening with my family and my girlfriend.  I feel blessed to have such a caring family that can sit around the living room, poke fun at each other, tell stories about the past and laugh...all without any sort of ulterior motive.  I know there are some that dread the times they "must" spend with their families during this time of year...but I'm thankful that my cynicism and pessimism have not sullied our traditions and allow me to relax and be myself while with them.

I hate to say it, but it seems like the only time people really connect with each other and you get to see that glimmer of hope in humanity, is around the holidays.  It's unfortunate that the feeling cannot last all year round for most people (I'm guilty of it too...I'm not getting on my soapbox...don't worry)...but I truly hope; with the times that are coming this way economically, that everyone can at least stay close to their loved ones and cherish the time they have with them.  I do...and I hope that maybe you can read this and just make that little extra effort to have the "Christmas Spirit" with you for the coming new year.  It'll feel good, I promise.