Our tree is smaller this year. The gifts will be fewer in number. It will be the first Christmas since Mammaw’s death. It will be my stepson’s first holiday away from home. (Ty’s at a New Jersey training facility since signing on with the U.S. Coast Guard.)

Still, I find myself even more appreciative this year of what we do have. So I’m belting out carols in the car, much to my daughter’s annoyance, and I’m enjoying the gentle glow of our little tree’s lights. I’m also trying to figure out which photo to use for this year’s Christmas card. I’m not used to seeing smiles from the E-man everyone.

OK, so Tootie appears to be baring her teeth rather than smiling, but I'll take it! (Picture of Ty drawn by Tootie.)