Kay and I spent Thanksgiving in Connecticut with our son, daughter, son-in-law, and our two grandchildren. It was a long road trip but well worth the time with family. We now will be together again around Christmas as everyone travels to Ravenna for the holiday….their turn to travel!

The Christmas season also involves political events that we will attend. From Christmas parades, to Christmas gatherings, ringing the bell at the kettle, the season is sure to be busy. I am determined however to balance the demands of the holiday season with the more important necessity of setting aside time for my family. I understand that political seasons come and go, but the family is forever and those relationships must be cultivated. It is possible that this time next year, my son Kees will be in Afghanistan and will not be home for the holidays. I must make the most of the opportunities given to me to make memories with our family.

I pray that your Christmas season is time well spent with family and that relationships are restored or strengthened and that lots of great memories are made….it is all about people and not presents.