Rowland Ramble -

For many years, I have made it a point to stop and savor those moments with family that only happen once a year, Christmas. I know that there will be a day when the celebrated moments will change and the definition of family will change. Each year, I have watched the slow decay of my nuclear family as it ages. This year I find myself unable to be with them and it has been painful. Part of this comes from the recognition that this is sort of what it may feel like when they are gone. It’s a lonely feeling here in the desert. I knew the time would come when I took the assignment and I have tried to look at the bright side but the truth is that Christmas is about the greatest gift that mankind would ever receive and celebrating it with loved ones is what it is about.