The Gift of A Lifetime

At this time of year as the temperatures grow ever colder the human heart appears to grow ever warmer. It is as if people have been holding their breath through life’s challenges all year long managing with nothing more than the promise that at this magical time they will be given the gift of exhaling. That one cleansing moment in time when expressing our humanity is not only expected but equally shared by all. The spreading of friendly hello's and seasons greetings to any and all we meet no matter what walk of life become more contagious than any disease known to man or womankind. Feelings seem to be so magnified at this time of year, so much so that even the loss of a human life takes on a far deeper meaning that at any other time. I can personally attest to this as I have lost many loved ones during this time, most recently the woman who greeted me into this world with a full heart, loving smile and the promise that all things good in life are possible.
Death always seems to be defined as the end of something but I am beginning to learn with each passing that death is actually the beginning. The beginning of a renewed promise of hope that brings with it possibilities. The chance to right old wrongs and better our less than perfect souls.

Yes, Virginia their is a Santa Claus! His red suit the color of our hearts rich with love for life and all humankind. His meaning a simple one; “Merry Christmas to all and to all...... a good life"!

My wish for this post is not to convey sadness but instead to lighten all our heavy hearts and honor all those amazing souls who have touched us with love and the ability to go on..... Merry Christmas everyone


Christmas Brie

2 lb. wheel of brie
5 tbsp. minced parsley
5 tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
10 sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil), minced
2 1/2 tbsp. oil from sun dried tomatoes
12 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp. basil, minced
3 tbsp. pine nuts, chopped

Chill brie; remove rind from top. Combine the rest of the ingredients. Spread on top of cheese. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Allow to stand 24 to 48 hours in refrigerator.
Serve with crackers.
Serves 30 to 40

Flickr/P. Sto