Here in the middle of the winter, we look for a White Christmas. A cold brisk day with some snow to encourage Santa and the reindeer on his sleigh. The season is noted by beautifully decorated trees visible to passersby.

My daughter just came back from Australia where it is the middle of the summer. A balmy 105 degrees just before she left. Christmas preparations down under are different. They include getting ready for a Christmas barbeque after spending the afternoon around the pool with family and friends. Pine trees are hard to find so plastic Christmas trees abound.

But across the differences, there is also commonality – a bonding of family and friends and lots of good food.

Wherever you are in the world today, if you are celebrating, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday.