Benjamin's Journal - It's that time again. . .

It's hard to believe that the holidays are once again upon us. Seems like just yesterday we were giving and receiving gifts, and enjoying the company of friends and family. I guess Kermit the frog was right, "Time is fun when you're having flies".

This time of year gives us many things. Time (if only a few days) off from work is one of the big things I look forward to. A new found appreciation for my job (after looking at the receipts). And then there are the things that are invaluable. Family, Friends. The holidays aren't complete with out family and friends. Nothing compares to spending time with my family on the holidays. Each person is very special to me, both near and far. With so many people I wish I could see this season, I hold three people closest to my heart. My parents and my sister.


Dad. Where to begin. . . You are both the man I aspire to be, and the man I could never equal. Your morals and values have helped to shape the way I view situations and make decisions. Your awe inspiring use and knowledge of the English language has made Merriam-Webster (www.m-w.com) my best friend. You stand up for what you believe in, not caring what might be said of you. Thank you for being a friend. Someone I can call when I have problems, or just need someone to talk with. But most of all, thank you for being my father.

Mom. Having a portion of Dad's temper, you've showed me how to manage it. You've taught me to have a long fuse. Your calm and collected way of dealing with problems gives you the advantage. I've learned that if I'm going to lose my head about something, it better be worth it. Working at the Library (see the r's?), you've given to me (and encouraged) a passion for reading. It isn't about the words on the page, but instead about the journey you embark on. Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on, and a friend I can count on. But most of all, thank you for being my mother.

Deaux. A sister is both a headache and a blessing. You've been your fair share of both. You have given me a chance to use all the things that both Mom and Dad have taught me. You've given me problems to solve, tempers to keep in control, and laughter to spread. If anything, you've taught me how to keep being a kid. You have no boundaries when it comes to having fun. From riding escalators 'elf' style, to laughing so loud that other people stare, you know how to have fun. Thanks for being a friend to me, for fighting with me every so often, and for keeping me laughing. But most of all, thank you for being my sister.

Every person in my family has things that they have taught me, memories that I cherish, and reasons that I love them. Each on cannot be listed right now for lack of time and space, but my heart has no boundaries. I love you all more than you will ever know. May you all have a wonderful Christmas and a great new year.

God Bless,
BibbitZ