Yuletide is gone, but as our minister said yesterday, the work of the season is just beginning, to promote respect for all people, to seek justice in all actions, to understand and protect the web of life.

Christmas Day started with the Sunday service, then off to my in-laws' house for dinner (with a nap in between). Everyone was there but for one daughter of the household whose middle name is 'Flaky', so we set a place for her but she didn't show at all. Some years she stops by late in the day; some years she is elsewhere.

N had a very bad time physically with the Parkinson's, though he enjoyed all the attention: being fed (by me), being walked, being catered to with drink (non-alcoholic) and dessert. His dearest wish fulfilled, which is to be waited on hand and foot, having to do nothing for himself. His criterion for perfection: what's easiest (for him).

And, in a way, one of my wishes also. I have been criticized for not bringing him home to care for him 24/7 now that I'm retired. When everyone saw the intense level of care he requires (not to mention all 200 pounds of him to be lifted up), their attitudes changed to sympathetic and understanding that I could not possibly care for him myself.

That may have been the best gift of all. We all felt much more relaxed, in synch, than we have been in years. I'm very grateful that everyone understands and accepts the situation.

Presents consisted of books and puzzles and warm house socks for the tootsies. What could be better?

I hope all of you are well, and warm, and happy.