We enjoyed many celebrations over the holidays! One of my fondest memories of Christmas 2009 was when I took the older 2 kids Christmas caroling with other members of our church. We visited the nursing home where my Grandmother resides and the Veterans home followed by some shut ins and one very special lady at the end stages of ALS. Kollman and Madeline walked up to each individual and shook their hand and said "Merry Christmas." For those individuals who were no longer in "their right mind" they would just touch their shoulder very gently and would whisper "Merry Christmas." It was such a joy to witness the smiles on their faces. My Grandmother cried tears of joy as we worshiped in song the birthday of the Christ child. Our last stop of the evening was the most touching. The lady we went to visit was at the end stages of ALS. I was not sure how my children were going to react. When we arrived her sweet husband turned her head so that she could see all of us as we each took turns speaking to her. When it was Kollmans turn he touched her shoulder ever so gently and again whispered "Merry Christmas." As he did this their eyes met and hers filled with tears. I must admit...so did mine. I was reminded ...again... of his sweet, tender heart. A heart filled with the love of Jesus. After all, isn't that why we celebrate Christmas?
