Dear friends,

I hope that this newsletter finds you safe and well along with looking forward to Christmas.

These last two years have been difficult for all of us; however, it’s been made easier with the support of our family, friends and neighbours.

Friends often come into our lives by chance and if we’re fortunate they’ll remain with us for life. We often meet new friends on vacation, although sometimes brief they leave us with warm and happy memories.

I’m sure each Christmas, like me, you look at names on your card list and think ‘I’ve not seen or spoken to them for years’. Perhaps you’ll wonder if it’s not time to leave them out!

Several years ago I saw this lovely verse in a newspaper, I cut it out and saved it. This Christmas I thought it would be the perfect time to share it:

There’s a list of folks I know, all written in a book, and every year at Christmas time I’ll go and take a look. 

And that is when I realise that these names are part, not of a book they’re written in, but on my very heart.

For once you’ve met somebody, the years cannot erase, the memory of a pleasant word or of a loving face. 

Never think my Christmas cards are just a mere routine or chore, of names upon a Christmas list, forgotten in between. 

For, be you relative or friend or someone that I’ve met, you happen to be one of those I’d rather not forget. 

And whether I have known you for many years or few, in some way you have had part in shaping things I do. 

So, as you read this message that I send at Christmas time, know that I send you all my love while you are on my mind. 

With the development of the vaccines, we’ve hope that life can move closer to normal for us. When it’s safe to travel, I look forward to meeting you again here in Scotland.

Wishing you a happy and peaceful Christmas along with my very best wishes for safe and healthy 2022.

Stay safe and well.

Best regards

Ian