Oh, What a Christmas
Weather was the highlight of this holiday season. With temperatures at 11 to 12 degrees below zero, the windchill in Rochester hovered between 40 and 42 below. Even hardy Minnesotans, used to dressing in layers and jump-starting cars, complained about the weather. Because my grandson, Dr. John Welby, was on call Christmas day, we celebrated on Christmas eve. Despite the fierce windchill, my daughter, grandson, and his girlfriend made it to dinner. We opened gifts, shared stories and laughter.
A week later, we celebrated Christmas again with my granddaughter, her minister husband, and two toddler sons. But my granddaughter tested positive for COVID (no symptoms), so we all wore masks. To my surprise, the boys kept their masks on. The Grand Rapids folks delivered gifts, opened gifts, got in the car, and drove back home. At least I was able to see my great grandsons for an hour. Though we didn’t snag a photo in the chaos of gift exchanges, I have this photo of the boys baking cookies.
Photo by Haley Earley.
Reviews
So, You’re Raising Your Grandkids
This book is well written, researched, informative and encouraging. I rate this book five out of five stars because not only does Hodgson compile research and resources in a concise format, but she also adds a personal touch that offers empathy to those in challenging circumstances and simplifies what can be an overwhelming amount of information.
If someone is in the position of raising their grandchildren, So, You’re Raising Your Grandkids! would be helpful. However, I believe the audience for this book is larger than grandparents raising grandchildren. Those who find themselves unexpectedly raising the children of a loved one will find this book relatable and the included information useful. Additionally, those who have someone in their circle of loved ones unexpectedly raising children, who are seeking to be supportive, may also glean helpful information and perspective from this book.
Christine Willson, member of the Online Book Club.
Book Business
Open to Hope Podcast Appearance
I’ve been on Open to Hope Radio several times and was a guest for a December podcast. Thanks to co-hosts Dr. Gloria Horsley and her daughter, Dr. Heidi Horsley, for inviting me again. Dr. Gloria is founder of www.opentohope.com and Dr. Heidi is the Executive Director.
My comments came from my extensive grief experience and research. I trust our discussion helped those who suffered multiple losses and are finding their way through the darkness of grief.
Exciting News!
Amazon is featuring Grief Doodling: Bringing Back Your Smiles for the entire month of January. The cost is only $2.99—a real deal. Thanks to Terri Leidich of WriteLife Publishing for submitting my book. If you thought about ordering a copy, now is the time to do it.
The #Rave Reviews Book Club (RRBC) is featuring Daisy a Day: Hope for a Grieving Heart and So, You’re Raising Your Grandkids all through January. I’m grateful to RRBC and Nonnie Jules, owner and CEO of the virtual club, for featuring and promoting my books. It’s an honor to be a lifetime member of RRBC.
Quote of the Month
Now the Work of Christmas Begins
By Howard Thurman
When the song of the angels is stilled,
when the star in the sky is gone,
when the kings and princes are home,
when the shepherds are back with their flocks,
the work of Christmas begins:
to find the lost,
to heal the broken,
to feed the hungry,
to release the prisoner,
to rebuild nations,
to bring peace among the people,
to make music in the heart.
