Taking a little more time this holiday

In the wake of the Connecticut shootings, I find myself taking more time to appreciate what – and who – is around me. The rules, such as they are, have become a little more lax, the snuggles and smiles more frequent, my patience infinitely longer.

Newtown was a harsh reminder to savor and enjoy each moment – we don't get time back once it has moved on.

So I'm happy to spend the evening working on projects with my family, with Animal Planet playing in the background. One more bedtime story? Why not? In fact, let's go for two. Help put tiny clothes on a Barbie? No problem. Games of Uno over and over and over again? Sounds good.

The holiday season is always time to reflect and enjoy our loved ones, but this year, it's even more so.

As a friend recently noted, the best things in life are the memories and cherished people who nourish your soul.