It's about family!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays:

As my family gets smaller with untimely deaths of those at the top of the pyramid, and as my sister, brother and I ascend to the pyramid hierarchy, family becomes more important.

On this holiday season, I extend a message to hold tight to family, cleave to them, honor and cherish them.

With family, bask in the glow of the merriment and the holiness of Jesus' birth.

Be together.  Love together. Cling to one another....together.

Being awarded...I guess I like it

I am not really big on awards...or so I thought.

I was absolutely giddy with excitement when I was awarded the "Girl on Fire" honor last night.  I used my acceptance speech to talk about the importance of being brave, curious and kind.

After I got my honor, I walked around the ballroom seeking -- and getting -- congratulations and best wishes from the audiences.  And I happily took pictures with any and everybody -- including some selfies.

So, today I'm basking in the afterglow.  So, I guess I enjoy getting awards after all.

And, based on my resume, I deserve it.