December 21, 2008, Galveston, Texas, 7:45 p.m., C.S.T.~

Dear Journal~

Teeka Daniels here.  Sorry for not writing; we've been busy with finishing with moving back into our house.  Our house, as you know by now, was damaged by Hurricane (Y)Ike; we were temporarily displaced.  It was hard; now we have good reason to celebrate this Christmas time.

God's granted us a miracle in letting us be back in our new home for Christmas.  That was what we wanted; that is exactly what we got!  :)  Christmas is indeed a season for miracles!!

We are so grateful that no more hurricanes have bothered us after (Y)Ike slammed into our home, changing our lives forever.  I'm just grateful to Uncle Tobin and Aunt Regan for letting us stay with them while we were without a place to live.  They've been very loving towards us; their comfort and support during our time of need was much welcomed/appreciated!

And more good news:  Daddy got a job!!  He is now working for one of the local high schools; they've hired him as a coach for the boy's football season when it starts up next fall.  Right now, though, he's a janitor; it's better than nothing, I guess.  As for mama, she's busy taking care of us and working part time at an elementary school as a school nurse. 

All the more reason to be happy this Christmas time!

The only drawback is my brothers are still having nightmares about the hurricane.  So am I, but I have found solace in playing soccer with my friends, and knowing that I can breathe easier, knowing that hurricane season is finally overwith for another year. 

I just hope my little brothers can find the peace that I have, so they don't have to be scared anymore anytime it comes up a cloud.  It's terrible seeing them quaking in fear whenever there's even a remote mention of storms, no matter if they are severe or not!!

Well, I am going caroling with some friends from school, so I will go now.  I will probably be back by ten or so.  I wanted to write, so I could wish all of my friends in Internet-Land the Merriest of Christmases and the best of New Years!!  So Merrrrry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!  Love you guys and gals!  Talk to you soon!  Take care and God bless!  Bye!!

~Love, your friend in Galveston, Texas, Teeka Daniels.  :D