“Always reward your long hours of labor surrounded by family. 

Nurture their love carefully, remembering that your children need models, not critics.

And even if you have failed at all else in the eyes of the world, if you have a loving family, you are a success.” -Og Mandino

It’s only two weeks until Christmas — and we can subtract one of those days for Hanukkah.

Do you have a million things that need to be done between now and then? Decorating, gifts, cooking, hosting? I sure do, although I’m ignoring a lot of it this year as my deadline for The Swallow’s Nest approaches.

So, in the rush and the frantic race to completion, what do you say we not forget what really matters: our families. It’s far too easy to forget the true purpose of the holiday and shove them aside in the chaos and confusion.

‘Tis the season for extra hugs and kisses and the most appreciated three words in the universe: “I love you!”