Christmastime is the only part of winter that I truly enjoy. Yes, the first snow is always beautiful, but then driving and shoveling become a chore and make the snow more of a nuisance than anything. Christmas is truly a time of brotherhood and goodwill to men.

Speaking of which, I joined a men's group at my church. We meet every Saturday morning and so far it has been a rewarding experience. Unfortunately when I came home from work this afternoon there was a message on my machine that one of our members fell down his stairs and broke his nose and an eye socket--ouch. I pray that he recovers soon, he really is a good man. In fact he spent this last Saturday helping to feed the homeless here in Niles.

My writers group has also become a rewarding experience. the introvert in me struggles to engage in conversation. However the passion in my soul is writing and that wins out over introversion.

Christmas is a time to give thanks. It is also a time to remember our loved ones, both those who are living and the departed. My fondest memories of youth are spending Christmas Eve at my Great Grandmother's house. Oh, how I wish I could return to those days.