This was a year ...
During Advent I like to reflect on the Nativity and on which character I identify myself the most with. This year it is the donkey, the gentle yet stubborn animal that carried Mary to Nazareth and then likely helped keep Jesus warm in the manger and then again walked all the way to Egypt with the Holy family. I like the donkey not because I feel particularly holy or gentle, but rather because of the load I have been carrying. It's an important load to keep the family moving forward steadily especially in uncertain times, when securities and habits are taken away and rules change by the day, often without making any sense. I wonder if the donkey carrying Mary and baby Jesus felt that way. Led on at least two very long trips, without knowing where she was going, without knowing what tomorrow or the next hour would bring. I am sure those journeys involved many setbacks and probably some scary moments. The donkey had faith in Joseph. We also need to have faith that God will guide us through these uncertain times.
May the mystery and joy of the Incarnation that we celebrate every Christmas bring you true peace and hope this season and always.
Merry Christmas/Buon Natale/Feliz Navidad
Enrico, Norine, Isabella, Emanuela, Pietro, Paolo (and Rosie)
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| A new beginning |
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| Fun in Florida |
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| Emma turns 21 |
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| college life |
Fun in the woods of Colorado
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| still running |
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| COVID madness |
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| We lost both our moms this year... |
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| ...may they rest in peace |
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| In Italy with the cousins for the funeral |
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| The free speech board with Justice for All in San Antonio |
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| Some of the Justice For All displays |
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| We start the year with solar panels and... |
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| ...an unexpected visit |
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| COVID's restrictions can be fun too |
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| and finally... "Sherman" the donkey (look up the book "running with Sherman") |
