Was in Dallas last night and went and saw my Dad after he had surgery. Stayed with Mom and got some things done around her house for her. Then, went by and saw my Dad this morning and he was much more alert but still not great. On top of it all, my sister called and said she was in the emergency room with appendicitis. Her appendix had ruptured and she had surgery today.

On the way home from Dallas, I saw this on the side of the road. I realized it isn't all about what you get or give but about spending time with your family. Letting them know how much you love them because anything can happen. My wish this Christmas is that my family is well and able to spend Christmas together, whether or not it is celebrated in a hospital room or in one of our homes. I just want those I love to be with me on that day.

I will be glad to see this year come to an end. It has been up and down all year with jobs, relationships, illnesses, accidents, just crazy stuff. I am praying that 2013 will be a better year and that all the drama and bad stuff is behind me. I know God has my back and I've learned a lot this year. I've become stronger and better and my faith is more solid. So, good has come out of bad as it always does.