Treasures

I am counting down the days till 2011. It’s been a difficult year for so many people I know. There is little comfort in knowing I have had company during this economic down turn. I still love blogging about food experiences and I will continue. This blog is a slight deviation from the norm celebrating treasures in my life.

The past two years, Christmas has morphed into less of a gift giving contest and more of a spiritual time for me. Especially this year. As always, my wish is for peace. In the world, my country, my city and my home. Peace.

This has been an especially trying year as my parents depend on me more than ever. It is a challenge for me to give them the time and love they deserve while keeping my head above water so to speak. Life changes.

I have had shared some fabulous meals in restaurants and with friends in their homes this year. I need to mention my chef (and dishwasher) at home. He has wowed us with some great meals and dishes from his garden. The love of my life still loves me too. We have shared so much and I wouldn’t have wanted to do this with anyone else.

My friends’ laughter has sustained me and their meals have filled me. I will never forget the kindness of friends. They have been generous with their time and given when they knew I needed it the most. My hope is to nourish these friendships and guard them like a treasure.

I have the pleasure of young children in my life again. Neighbors and friends who share their children with me. To see their joy at play and hear their laughter is a sure cure for the blues. There is nothing like laughter to clear the brain and jump-start the heart. They are a treasure.

Family dynamics have changed for us. A daughter married. A son-in-law. They found each other and true love. The same kind of love I have had for 34 years. We are blessed by their union. True love is the one true thing I wish for my children to find.

I am proud today especially, of my son. He is playing in a golf marathon to benefit a 7-year old boy with cancer. Some of you received pledge letters and I hope you have the ability to contribute. He hopes to play over 100 holes of golf and has sponsors at $1 a hole or whatever they can give. He gave up a day at work and took his Dad for a caddie; leaving early this morning for a local country club. I am proud of my son’s compassion and dedication to help others. If you would like to contribute, let me know and I will put you in contact with him.

So, my married daughter is living her dreams, my son is following his dream on the golf course and then there is my “kiddle-in-the-middle”. She is my joy. She has been such a help to us financially and emotionally this year. She is always upbeat and full of life. I am grateful everyday for her. She is my light.

I am full of hope for my family and friends that 2011 will bring jobs, peace, abundance and joy. And great food experiences. I’ll keep you posted.