Open your presents at Christmastime but be thankful year round for the gifts you receive. ~Lorinda Ruth Lowen

As the holiday season winds up, I’m always nostalgic. I love to sit and reflect, not just over the wonderful blessings I’ve enjoyed over the last few weeks – my family all gathering around, the thoughtful gifts and laughing moments of joy. But also over the year and the many blessings I’m so lucky to have in my life. Beautiful children and a fabulous husband, a loving and supportive family. Friends who are always there and a career I love and cherish. And most especially, the readers who’ve touched my life and whose lives I’ve hopefully touched as well.

I hope you all had a lovely holiday and a fabulous 2009!!! Here’s wishing us all a new year filled with love, laughter and joy.