As Leilani writes this, we’re watching the 24 Hours of “A Christmas Story” on TBS, while preparing some fruit for a special baked tart tomorrow, and thinking about the holiday.

We do this every year, it seems, but we have so much fun and good times doing it, it’s hard to break from routine. It’s not too cold tonight either, which makes Christmas seem that much more unique this year. There’s ALWAYS something new and unique that we notice or observe, not necessarily good or bad, just different.

Tonight, we spent a few hours with a dear family member and her relatives. She was diagnosed with aggressive cancer a few months back and has been fighting to live ever since. She’s strong, courageous, and there’s a will inside this woman we just don’t think will stop fighting. We ate to bursting and traded gift cards with one another, as we do every year. We suppose Christmas has a certain meaning for different people. Maybe you’re in celebration, or in mourning, or in joy and thanksgiving, or in pain and sorrow. It doesn’t matter.

What matters most is you are here. You’re alive, and Christmas is the greatest time to be alive. Whether you appreciate or not, we extend our heartfelt greetings and well-wishes, our hopes and our dreams, and bestow on all of you our good fortunes for the year ahead.

A very Merry Christmas, one and all.  And may we all truly experience Peace on Earth…♥

Our best,

Leilani, Riff, and KJ!