Christmas Greetings

My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that? ~ Bob Hope
 

Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. ~ Calvin Coolidge
 

As the final countdown to Christmas day begins, I wish you all the warmest of greetings – for yourselves and your families.
 

Thanks to those of you who sent Christmas cards, especially the ones that included photos of your Lhasas that bring such joy to your lives. Although I enjoy receiving Christmas cards, I admit to having a "Bah, Humbug" attitude when it comes to sending them, so I really admire those of you who take time to send a card and note of greeting during this special time of year.
 

Here are some precious early Christmas gifts we received on December 3rd. Now two weeks old, the puppies are eating well and doing great. Their eyes opened on Sunday, always a momentous occasion! Max reminds me much of Rafe. Our granddaughter was not too pleased when I named Nellie, and thought "Ellie" was a better choice, so we'll see. Mallory was named by her new family who have been waiting for her arrival for a long time.

Mallory

Max

Nellie (or maybe Ellie)

Since I began this blog in March 2009, I've signed off by saying, "Life is good when you have a Lhasa to love you," but with this post, I am changing it. Life is "good" no matter what. "Good" doesn't necessarily mean "easy" or "happy all the time." Life is "good" when we love ourselves and others. Life is "good" when we make positive choices to make it "good" for ourselves, our families, our friends and neighbors, and the millions of others in the world. Life is "good" when we are optimistic and caring in spite of all the crap the world and other people pile on us. Life is "good" when we choose to persevere in the face of defeat and not give up when it would be so easy to do so.

But…

Life is better when you have a Lhasa to love you!

Merry Christmas, my friends. May God continue to bless each and every one of you, not just during this holiday season but throughout the coming year.

Joyce