Par for the course around here, my Christmas cactus is confused as hell. Normally it blooms around Thanksgiving, which is premature but close. I must say that an early summer blooming is out of the ordinary. Must be the perfect weather conditions since I kicked it out on the porch a couple of months ago.

I just love holidays. I work about half of 'em but it's still a different kind of atmosphere, even at the sawmill with the restless natives. It's a great excuse to cook good food and celebrate another year in paradise.

I've got some tablecloths I inherited from my grandma that make me smile every time I iron 'em and set the table. My favorite is the battenburg lace one that requires a hot iron to be presentable. There are others in the trousseau of BabyGirl, along with some china and crystal.

That's about all I have to give her....the legacy of family and the fierce love of a Mom who did the best she could with what she had.