What a joy it is to have our children and their partners all together this Christmas. Babies are soft and gorgeous. Toddlers are amazing and fun. Pre-teens are interesting and enjoyable. Teens are changeable and challenging. (Our) young adults are richly rewarding, deeply satisfying and to be savoured at every opportunity, especially when they are together.  What a joy it is.

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Sue is in her chemotherapy 'off week'. This is a blessed relief from the daily doses of poison. The next round starts on Monday. Sue is experiencing a slow but noticeable increase in pain and discomfort in her left side. This means more frequent (and sometimes stronger) pain medication and the reintroduction of the trusty 'wheat bag' heat pad.

It has also required her to accept and relax even further into BEING mum rather than DOING Mum. This is a particular challenge right now when she would love to be expressing her love and commitment to the gathered family in very practical ways. However, Sue can take pride and joy in the fact that she has raised three children who are capable and willing to express their love and commitment to the family in very practical ways while she sits, watches, absorbs and enjoys BEING Mum. It is the best Christmas present ever, and warms my heart.