This has been a very tough year for many of my friends and extended family members. So many have lost loved ones, endured illness both physically and emotionally, and dealt with losses of jobs and income. I lost a friend this year at the too-young age of 56. We used to sing together with another dear friend. One of our last performances was of "Hey Santa!" for a company Christmas gathering in Memphis. I heard that song for the first time this season and it was a poignant moment and another realization that I won't sing with Mary again until we meet in Heaven.
On happier notes, I have had a wonderful time "doing art" with the children at Micah's Mission. These kids are an inspiration and just a joy to be around. We made some really cool picture frames and designed our own gift wrap and Christmas cards. Check them out here:
https://www.facebook.com/micahsmissionschool/
I am about to head out on what has become an annual trip to North Mississippi and Memphis. I visit friends in Water Valley, Oxford, and Southaven. On Friday, I will attend the Christmas Concert of the Memphis Camerata, which includes my friend Teresa. This is always a lovely occasion.
https://www.facebook.com/Camerata901/
Then I will zoom back home to prepare for our last service of the year at Hermanville United Methodist Church. It has been different this past 6 months with only having services two Sundays a month, but those services have been a blessing, for me at least. I help out at a local retirement home on one of the "off Sundays." These Sundays contain great lessons presented by my friend, Sarah and I love coordinating music and singing with these residents. I come away feeling sufficiently "churched" on those Sundays. The other Sunday, I often spend at home, just enjoying a peaceful morning. I no longer see anything wrong with this.
https://www.facebook.com/HermanvilleUnitedMethodistChurch/
On another happy note, LSU won the SEC Championship! I know that a lot of folks think football is silly, but LSU football has always been a link to my Daddy. I was born at Baton Rouge General at the height of Football season in 1959 while Daddy was getting his Engineering degree from LSU. I was born a Tiger fan. Last time we won the SEC, Daddy was in the hospital, dying of cancer. I bought the SEC Championship hat for him and took it to the hospital where we displayed it on his corner shelf. Seeing LSU do well brings back happy memories of my Daddy and I won't apologize for being extra happy to see how well they have done this season!
December has historically been a tough month for me and my family. But, I am more determined than ever to make it the best one possible this year. I hope you can too.
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