Habari Gani?

The good news is that this has been one of the most peaceful holiday seasons.

Today is the first day of Kwanzaa, the principle today being Umoja, Unity.

I think that is what my soul feels.

My family and I had a month of experiences, created memories, and honored each other in our lives.

We started it off with my son's concert, then the girls' had concerts, then my husband had a concert, and we attended performances. These are the things they will remember more than anything that was or wasn't under the tree.

This year, we didn't even go shopping until Christmas Eve, and even then, kept it thoughtful and small. We avoided the commercialism of the season and didn't fight over a pair of overprice, cheaply made, athletic shoes that speak to the lowest of emotions, why spend $180 for that?

The economy probably set our family to thinking about what we really have, what we really need, and what we really want. Maybe, maybe not, I know, it made me think about all that we have and that what I really want is my family.

I felt a peace this year, a sense that everything is going to be ok. Even as good news rolled in on Christmas Eve that stopped hate in its tracks made me pause and smile. I would give Eric HOlder a hug if I could and give President Obama a hand shake and a "thank you" for his continued efforts to stand against the most mean-spirited of parties.

The good news is that we are entering the last week of the year, the first day of Kwanzaa, the opportunity to reflect and renew. I am expecting great things in 2012.

What is your good news?