In the past, Kevin and I have always made a Christmas dinner together; once big fancy meal to celebrate the season. This year, we decided to invite our best friends, Sara and Uche, to join us.

It was beyond fun hosting a dinner party! There’s no doubt that it involves a lot of prep work, but it was worth every big it effort. As we sat there eating and talking and laughing, the time passed so quickly that it was 10:30 before we knew it.

We certainly had our fill of food too! Over twenty-four hours later, I’m still stuffed. Salad, cracker fluff, butter horns, deviled eggs, carrots and asparagus, twice-baked potatoes, glazed ham, wine, and, of course, desserts. Yes, two kinds because, you know, one would never be enough! Sara brought chocolate bread pudding and home made salted nut rolls.

As we sat around, laughing, I realized that life is truly a big journey full of beautiful surprises. Three Christmas choirs ago, I met Sara, who immediately became my best friend and our journey since has been so fun and treasured. And though we maintain our own weekly dates, our double dates with our spouses has also become a big hit, always making time fly and making me feel like the world is a good place, even if only in our little corner.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas.  Enjoy your family and treasure your friendships that feel like family. Both are equally special.