January 1 is meaningful to so many, for many different reasons.  For me, it means my Grandpa’s Birthday, a day of celebration in my childhood, as family gathered around Nanny’s diningroom table, just as we did the week before, for Christmas Day.  We shared an Italian meal and helped Grandpa blow out candles on a big, round cake.  Today, I woke up and wished Grandpa in heaven a Happy Birthday, and then said “hello Ma” to my mother in heaven, as January 1 is the day of her death.  I take comfort that they are together.  I said my daily “Hail Mary” prayer, especially important today, the day of The Solemnity of Mary, our Mother of Mary, who trusted God to make a path for her.  I will look to God to make a path for me in the New Year.  I have much to be thankful for and hope that you shape a path to joyful peace in the New Year, too.