Strange how a teapot can represent
at the same time
the comforts of solitude and
the pleasures of company.
[Author Unknown]

Truth be told, I’m a coffee drinker. I usually don’t drink tea, but I do admire tea pots. Periodically, when I clean my collection and the shelves that hold them, I pet them and glean their memories. They are like books without words—they tell me stories that I’ve heard over and over through the years. Like a child at bedtime, I enjoy the retelling just as much.

Our hearts grow tender with
childhood memories and love of kindred,
and we are better throughout the year for having,
in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time.
[Laura Ingalls Wilder]

Daughter, Rachel, and her sons, Joshua and Michael, joined Toby, other friends and family, and me for Christmas morning festivities.

Christmas gift suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
[Oren Arnold]

In recent years, my family and friends have gathered at my home for Christmas brunch and gift giving. This year, presents keep gathering under my tree and in stockings in anticipation for this Friday’s celebration. My friends and kin who aren’t here also share in this celebration since I hold them in my heart.

Heap on the wood!—the wind is chill;
But let it whistle as it will,
We’ll keep our Christmas merry still.
[Sir Walter Scott]

Thanks Bob. This looks like Christmas to me. Select the LINK on the photo to see more of Bob’s Chicago photos.

At times our own light goes out
and is rekindled by a spark from another person.
Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude
of those who have lighted the flame within us.
[Albert Schweitzer]