The BiG dAy finally arrivied....

.....Christmas!!!!! You could almost taste the excitement in the air as the kids came down the stairs to see what "Santa" had brought!....NOT that a few of them hadn't already done some research of their own PRIOR to this big day, but none the less...the excitement was thick and everyone was spoiled as their dreams of sugarplums came true. Everyone took their time opening their gifts and we enjoyed the fun of seeing what everyone got and relished in the feeling that comes from "giving" gifts to the ones that we love. My husband and children are some of the greatest people that I know. They are so special to me and they always put alot of thought into the gifts that they give to me each year. But this year I got more than just what was wrapped in bright colored paper and resting under the Christmas tree. I got gifts that I can carry with me forever. Besides the sweet packaged gifts that I got from my sweet family, I learned something from each of them that I can treasure long after I am gone. From Dayna and Jack, I got the gift of "Time". They live a couple of hours away and sometimes we don't get to see them very often. BUT they were able to come out for our Christmas Party and I got to spend time with them, which I love and cherish. They drove up to Salt Lake the day after Christmas to spend the day with Deron and I, going to the movie and out to dinner, giving up their own time to share it with us. I learned that "quality" is sometimes more important than "quantity". From Todd and Dana I got the gift of "Thoughtfulness". They live just down the street from us and they are always so sweet to stop by for a quick visit, drop off goodies or just come and say HI! They both are very genuine and kind, to not only me, but others they are in contact with as well. They are always so sweet to let me know that they love and care for me. I learned from them that it doesn't hurt to go out of your way to be nice. From Erik I got the gift of "Service". He is always so willing to help. Whenever he comes over for dinner, parties or a visit...one of the first things that he asks me is "Mom, what do you need help with?". It doesn't matter if its something as trivial as setting the table, he is there and willing to help. I learned from him that a willing heart and busy hands go a long way to truly serve. From Kim I got the gift of "Peace". She has always been a peacemaker and able to calm tension. It doesn't matter whether is between her younger siblings or her friends, she is able to calm some of the most troubled water just by saying "Hey, guys...does it really matter?" or saying something funny and witty to lighten the mood. I learned from her not to take life so serious and that having a good sense of humor is a blessing, something the world could use more of. From Cameron I got the gift of "Patience". He is one of the most patient people that I know. He has the patience of Job and shows, as well as demonstrates, compassion for his family as well as those in need. I learned from him that its okay to walk away from trouble, smile and sometimes the problem will go away. I learned from him that responsibility isn't to be taken lightly and to whistle while you work. He makes me smile. From Halle I got the gift of "Gratitude". She is always so grateful for what she gets, for things that others do for her and for the little blessings in life. She never misses a beat when it comes time to say "Thank you" for whatever, it could be the littlest thing ever, but she is grateful for it and she makes a point to let you know that she is. I learned from her that saying "Thank You" makes those around you feel appreciated and the sincerity behind the words can be felt for days later. They are words that should be used and meant more often, by us all. From my sweet hubby I got the gift of "Love and Happiness". He gets up every single morning with a smile and a happy tune in his heart (lots of time he is whistling or singing a phrase). He makes me happy and I know that he loves me and is out to take care of me. He is a protector and my soul mate. I learned from him that its fun to be happy and that happiness rubs off on those you are around. Christmas was full of so many wonderful gifts for me both temporal and emotional. I am grateful for the blessings of Christmas and the love of a very wonderful family.

PS...I was told that under NO circumstances was I to upload any pictures of the family from Christmas morning...I guess no one wanted their "morning" look to be broadcast all over the Internet....don't blame them, I don't either!...so you'll all just have to use your imagination when it comes time for visuals for this post...sorry.