Mike's Place

By Michael L. Craner

For me, christmas is all about being together with family... and the kids. Seeing their eyes light up, spending time with them.

When I came back from Haiti back in Dec 94 and picked up my son (only one at the time) from preschool and saw his face light up at the sight of me, it touched my soul, the image burned into my heart and I will never forget it.

"You may be one person to the world, but you may be the world to one person".

I missed so much of the tender years from my first three, I finally get to see them in Caitlin. She turns two in February, and her intelligence never ceases to amaze me.

The other three kids are growing up so fast too, my oldest turns 13 next month, and so much a young adult it is hard to believe. So responsible and strong. A young man to be sure. His presents this year are a mix of toys and electronics. Next year he`ll not want any toys... he`ll be getting tools, collectables and things to challenge his skills and brain.

The year after he`ll probably get his first razor... if that doesn`t come later this year.

My god how quickly they grow up.

Sorry, I have to go be with my kids, while they still want me around. Here`s hoping you all have a very merry christmas, for whatever it means to you.
--Mike