I feel like a happy tic. I dare not step on scales for a few days, because they don't lie. I've visited with friends and family for the last few days. And I ate.
Ham, fried okra, mashed turnips, collards, corn, turkey, dressing, fruit cake, pecan pie, sweet potato casserole, and warm bread with dripping butter were all on my plate at some point in time.
I've experienced the aroma of baking cookies, hot coffee, goat soap, chapstick, and newborn babies.
There is no sound more enchanting than that of children laughing. It's been a remarkable few days, but both Jilda and I are bone tired.
Today, I snapped another picture of fungi growing on a fallen log next to our walking path. Each of these looks as if they were carved from ivory.
There is so much noise coming at us each day that it's easy to miss the beauty that is everywhere.
The older I've gotten, the more I strive to recognize and acknowledge the gifts that are all around me.
Tonight, as I sat down to write, I reflected on the past few days. I'm thankful I took the time to hug my lovely wife and a bunch of candy cranked kids while also taking a moment to enjoy the gifts that Mother Nature sends each day.
Merry Christmas
