Dec. 29, 1997

The Christmas Season began on a sad note. My elderly mother died peacefully after suffering from senile dementia for several years. It was definitely a blessing, but it was still a loss. But soon the whole family was able to get into the holiday mood in a fun, big way.

3 weeks before Christmas we had a special "decorating party" and invited several friends to join us in lighting up our house in the Grizwold fashion. My Danish friend relished the idea of finally being able to put garish lights and decorations all over the outside of a house, an activity his own family would never allow (I wonder why). Apparently the Danes have far more sense than the Americans when it comes to external Christmas lighting. I refused to participate in this barbaric show of gaudy grandeur, but I must admit I got a kick out of all the fun my husband, son, and friend were having as they lit up the neighborhood. My daughter and her boyfriend took charge of decorating the tree. My friend's girlfriend sprayed little snowflakes which looked more like turtle roadkill on the French doors, and when everyone was finished the place looked quite cozy and festive.

We celebrated with an international gathering on Christmas Eve. Three continents were represented at our table, Europe, Asia, and North America, as we dined in elegant fashion.

Of course the presents were all wonderful, but I think the love I felt from family and close friends far outweighed the neat gifts I received. I think it was one of the best Christmases ever for me.