"Embrace each day as a gift..." As the new year unfolds and just over a week into the start of 2026, many people seek to make resolutions and set new goals, always striving for change. It is indeed a good time to reflect on the past year and be motivated for new endeavors or changes you desire, but oftentimes these resolutions fail.   Setting goals in and of themselves can be daunting and even self-defeating. How many people vow to diet and get in shape only to see that disci

"Christmas is all about the gift..." Every year, as the wonder of Christmas rolls around, I’m delighted with all the festivities and celebrations. One of my greatest joys during this time of year is giving and receiving gifts with family members, loved ones, and friends.   I recall the magic of Christmas morning as a young child. Descending the stairs, I would slowly take in the wonder of the colorful wrapped gifts that had suddenly appeared under the Christmas tree, like the

I "The lights create such beauty..." l love the holidays and decorating for the Christmas season. Lights, in particular, add a special ambiance to the season. But lights sometimes are a lot of work. A lot!   Take my three-year-old, pre-lit, artificial Christmas tree in the family room. Last year, half the lights quit working. This year, we had to restring the whole tree. So much for the ease of working lights!   And in another instance, the pre-lit Christmas garland I was de