How true it is that – “The love of a family – is life’s greatest blessing” – and I certainly feel so blessed – to have been able to experience that love – over the past days – as we have celebrated Christmas together.

Christmas can be a hard time for many – especially those who are alone – with no one to share such a special time with – and so – I never want to take my family for granted – but rather – treasure and hold close – every moment that I get to share life with them.

I consider myself so very fortunate – in that – it’s not just something that I get to experience – only at certain times of the year – but – something that I am constantly surrounded by.

“Being a family means you are part of something very wonderful – it means you will love – and be loved – for the rest of your life”

I find it hard to express just how much my family mean to me – and how much I appreciate all the ways in which they show their love for me too.

Family is something that is set apart – with a bond that surpasses all other friendships and relationships – no matter how special they are – and that is something that I recognise more and more – as I get older.

“As old as you get – you’ll never find a love as genuine as something you get in your own family – family love is more unconditional than any friendships and memories out there”.

And of course – saying that – in no way diminishes the value I place on so many wonderful friendships that I have – and have had – the privilege to know.

But – today – I want to honour my family – to say – “Thank you” – to let them know how proud I am of them all – to thank them for all the love they shower on me – and to let them know how much they are loved too.

Blessings – Lois