Christmas 2014

It is hard to believe that 2014 is coming to an end. Time seems to fly by so much quicker as I age.

Life is good to me. I am not idle and I love retirement. I babysit a little boy, Tyson who has stolen my heart on Monday and Tuesdays. On Wednesdays I work at Dakan Chapel in accounts payable plus work any funerals that they need my assistance with during the rest of the week. I am well suited for both jobs. Does that make me semi-retired instead of retired?

My four grandsons are all doing well and are still the delights of my life. Maxton started kindergarten this year so Carter rides to preschool each day without his big brother. He and Paige have alone time on the way to and from work. On the other hand Maxton gets to spend time with Grandma Goodson and his daddy each day. Wanda helps Max with his homework when he gets off the bus at her house and Maxton is his daddy’s shadow most afternoons.

Ethan and Lance no longer attend the same school. Ethan entered middle school this year. It is only blocks away from his home so he can walk or ride his bike. He likes to spend time with me learning to cook. He has learned to cook omelets, quiche and Swedish pancakes (crepes), fudge and salads. Lances’ love is football and he attends every BSU home game with his parents even when the temperature dips into the single digits. His build is small yet he wants to be a football player someday.

My health continues to remain steady. Instead of visiting the oncologists every four months they have now bumped me out to every six months.  I must admit that occasionally I struggle with the “what-ifs” but I am grateful for each new day that I have been given.

I read a book recently and I leave you with these borrowed words:

“What a blessing life is. If you don’t believe it, get up and watch the sunrise tomorrow or take time to gaze up at the stars. Listen to the restful sound of a morning dove in the quiet woods, or the wind whispering through the leaves above you.

Contemplate all that you are grateful for, and never give up on your dreams. Most importantly, give your whole heart to all that you love in this life.”

Amidst all the trappings of this busy season I hope you pause and quietly give thanks for your blessings. From my heart and home to yours; Merry Christmas.

Nicki