Merry Christmas to all from west central SD! Our blessings are great, and weather ones are probably the ones most appreciated. Better health and less pain sure is a top one for me. High on the list is our family, from our third generation on up to our little sixth generation great grand girls, with many of us living and working on this ranch begun by our grandfathers (my own family ranch being only ten miles away with a brother and his family still there) in 1892 and 1910, respectively. Our fifth generation, ages 10 to 31 all seven are well on their way to making their way in life, and we are especially thankful that two of them are living and working on this ranch, too. Makes it easier for we 'elders' to have work a little easier, and choose the jobs we like best!
Out communities are a blessing, too. We started the 'season' with an event focused on a living nativity, and have enjoyed several events focusing on 'the reason for the season'. And, today we have two funerals to attend. Sad that they come so near to Christmas, but also a completion of the circle of life and a celebration of lives lived well, just ending sooner than we would choose.
So we go on to our family gatherings and celebrations continuing into the New Year with all our kids and all but two of our grand kids able to be here at various times. Miss them a lot, but their jobs keep them home right now.....and jobs are a GOOD thing!!!
Wishing you all a VERY Blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.
mrj
