I love my familia. I really and truly do. I’m so incredibly fortunate to have them in my life. I’d do just about anything for them just to ensure their safety and security. This year, my family Christmas was a loving time when we all chose to set aside any perpetual frustrations we might have with each other and just basked in each others’ presence. That’s what the holidays are all about. Gosh, I’m lucky!

So… now let’s get back to the rest of the year when I’m repeatedly reminded of how almost unbelievably full of beans so many people in my family still are. I love them, but I sometimes very nearly can’t stand them. I adore them, but I can only take so much of them in one day. I’m grateful for them, but they still really, REALLY annoy me.

However, on some level, I guess that’s what family is about. For instance, sometimes I wonder if the love wouldn’t be so strong if it weren’t for the consistent battle with chronic familial frustration. Oh well.

All in all, I’m at peace. Annoyed, but at peace. Full of love, but at peace. Content, but at peace.

Okay, maybe just at peace.

Peace out. Let’s move on to the New Year.