MERRY CHRISTMAS

Everyone has gone to bed and, as luck would have it, the computer happens to be in the study as is the guest bed at my daughter's. It has been a busy couple of days getting ready for Christmas with picking up last minute items, wrapping and more wrapping, delivering a present to her principal (she is a teacher), and I spent an afternoon making fudge with my grandson and his friend. It's all been at a moderate pace, though with plenty of time to laugh and joke and visit, watch a movie or two and generally have a good time. I've talked with my son and wished him a Merry Chistmas and tried to reach the other daughter. My brother seems to be keeping busy in the workshop and enjoying his time alone.

Tonight we tried to go to 5:00 Mass and the church was crowded and people were "saving seats" so that although you were there, and there seemed to be plenty of available seating...people were telling you"this is saved for my mother...uncle,...etc. My daughter got so annoyed We went outside the chuch and she said I'm nnot feeling at all good and charitable about church right now...and more and more people were coming all the time. It was standing room only. We decided to meet their friends for fish and chips at 6:00 and come back for the 10:00 mass. I am so glad we did. The Church was full but there were seats for us and the service was beautiful. Turned out that the priest we had wanted to hear say Mass, actually was at the 10:00. We all came out of there feeling inspired to be better people and reminded of the meaning of Christmas. It was nice for me to be able to share that with my family. I don't always attend church regularly as I don't drive and transportation is a problem. At any rate, for all of you, I hope your Christmas is one of joy, happiness, peace and love. m