GREETINGS

This time last year I had friends whom I had met through work, sport, hobbies, school, and location. Some of them I saw often, others less so, some not for more than 30 years, but we remained in contact at least once a year, and were interested in the happenings in each other's lives.

This year I feel that my circle of friends has increased beyond measure. Of course, I'm talking about my blogging friends. I've only met one of them face-to-face (apart from my family, of course), and yet I feel that I know many of them at least as well as some of my earlier friends.

I feel there are many whose homes I would be welcomed into, as they certainly would be into mine. We have shared in print and photos family histories, daily events, and hopes for the future. We have laughed at some stories and shed tears over others. We have sent comments of encouragement, agreement or disagreement, advice and humour - and always with interest and concern for the recipient. We come in all shapes, sizes, sexes and ages, and we learn tolerance, compassion, understanding and wisdom from each other.

Thank you, ShellyC for suggesting that I join the world of blogging ("you might meet someone with similar interests" - how's that for an understatement?), and also Chloe and Calidore for your technical advice in the early days. Since then I have travelled the world each day on my computer and met dozens of fellow bloggers doing the same. It's as yet only the 'tip of the iceberg' and I know there are many more friends out there to meet - when time and other commitments will allow.

So, to all of my new friends, thank you for your friendship. May you all have a very happy, safe and blessed Christmas, New Year and holiday season. I look forward to 'visiting' and sharing with you next year.