The Christmas festivities have begun. A tamale and chili feast with the immediate family of my youth and our spouses and young'uns. Lots of hanging out and talking like the good old days. A nice pot-luck with the immediate family of my wife's youth at the Saxer's house last night. A wonderful, peaceful, jovial occasion... My hope is that my friends had or will have a similar beginning of their family Christmas festivities and that it just keeps getting better through Christmas.

Jackson played Christmas songs at his piano recital. He wanted to perform from memory. He froze up in the middle of the second song and began to cry. He got his music, looked at the note he forgot and continued and played well, although he was obviously still very upset and crying. I frankly thought he would melt down. Boy's got a lot of ultra fine attributes, but I did not think he would have any poise left whatsoever in that situation. Shame for my under-estimation, and joy that he's stronger than I thought. He played very well. I am so proud of that kid, though I know he is great mainly despite me.

Peace, love and joy.