2016 has been a full year for our family. As I reflect, the first thing that comes to mind is extremes. Extreme highs and extreme lows. We have enjoyed much professional success, and I have received numerous accolades from our community. The highs, and I am grateful. We have had the opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. The highs, and I feel blessed. I returned to Indonesia after waiting for more than 30 years. The highs, and life changing, again. My husband, my children, and my fur kids continue to love and support me, along with all of my crazy ideas and blurred vision . . . the highs. Many around us have suffered loss, and we have dealt with illness and disease up close and personal. The lows, but we continue to grow, learn and love.

2017 is already taking shape, and I am so excited about what lies just around the bend for me, my family, Three Birds Tavern and Out of the Weeds.

I know that each of you has carried some burden in 2016. I hope that you find peace in the season and that your burden is lifted, if even for a short time. May we all discover adventure, along with an abundance of love, acceptance and joy in 2017.

“As long as we know in our hearts what Christmas ought to be, Christmas is.”

Eric Sevareid

Merry Christmas to you. Happy Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

Robin