I wish I could make myself like this season. The lights are pretty, etc. There are just too many "reminders".....of the last time I saw my mom as a child (and was made to lie to her...as in "if you ever tell, your mom will die....and she did). Of a couple of years ago when hubby's mother (who was a saint!) was dying and the world went on without her. Of my son's best friend, Ziggy, who "died suddenly" last week. Of my friend who's husband won't live until Christmas. So many things I question at this time of year. Yes, I'm thankful because I know I've been blessed beyond measure. But there are still those lonely spots in my heart that are empty. I guess I'm growing up....it's not all about me. I finally feeling that empathy for others. How in the world could that have happened? Alffe, I think you're a little bit responsible.....and you, too, Nikki.