I posted this e-card on my social media with this accompanying message: “If distance or health prevents you from being with family or friends, let your memories bring you back to times of joy and happiness.” UNEXPECTED HOLIDAY GIFTS By Candice M. Sanderson T his was new for me, and I wasn’t very happy about it. For the first time in my life, I would not spend my birthday (December 21), Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day with my family. Although very cautious and following all recommended medical guidelines, my daughter and her youngest contracted covid. The thoughts of Cassie and Shalane being sick added fuel to those holiday blues that creep in my direction this time of year. Unable to be with my daughter and her family, the highlight of my quiet birthday was going to bed early. The next day, I helped Cassie by making stops at the grocery and buying last-minute gifts from several department stores. I unloaded the bags and carefully placed them on Cassie’s front porch, then dutifull...