How Can I Help?

     I mentioned in my last letter that the holidays were coming up soon. Well, here we are,  nearing the end of the holiday season, and I've found my heart hurting a little extra lately. It makes me sad we didn't get to spend it with you, but you had the rest of your family up in heaven having the best time. We've got Dad taken care of down here.      It has felt more like Christmas this year  than years in the past. It helps that we had Dress-Up December and made a Gingerbread City in our hallway at school, and I put my heart and soul into that. The kids loved it! I've realized these kids look forward to school to escape their home life. I'm glad they trust me to be a positive thing each day. I can only imagine a Christmas break of 17 days would be hard on a kid during Christmas time when, in any household, money is tight, routines are off, and quite frankly,  there is such a thing as spending too much time with the ones you love.  ...

     With Christmas coming up, we all know things get messy-- and I'm not talking about in the kitchen.      Attempting to align Christmas with other families is difficult. Some come to the conclusion they just can't be there. I have personally never been that person, as my schedule has worked out each year. When it is my turn not to be there, I'll send my well wishes and hope my absence doesn't affect the cheerful time of the gathering. So far, life has kept me near my family, which has been one of my greatest blessings. However, as my friend has said, "Life changes, minds change, and circumstances change." I don't know what is to come, but I'm happy I've gotten 22 years already to have family nearby, and I've loved it. For the ones that don't have this, my heart goes out to you. My hope is that wherever you are, you take care of yourself during this season.  Some tips and tricks I thought I'd share if I were in your situation.      Do...