As I sit here in the living room, listening to the dish washer, Travis snoring on the couch, and Miracle on 34th Street... I am pondering how blessed I am. There are gifts under the tree, but this is the first year I have honestly discovered the true meaning of giving. It felt so good to help a friend in need this year and I was honored to work along side my sister and others to provide basic needs, a meal, and a few goodies for a family. I have a new huge appreciation for what I have every day. I think everyone should take the time to give. I keep reading people being offended by people buying presents for Christmas. I well respect your opinions. However, it is my family's tradition and I want to share my thoughts. In my family we have had huge Christmases and some where we scraped to buy each other one thing, but looking back it is not the gifts I remember. I remember the laughter in the air, the smiles, the hugs, the memories of loved ones gathered in one place. It is sad that our America only allows us one major holiday to have time off with one another. That is one reason I love Christmas--it means we are all together without a billion things to do. We do indeed praise God and rejoice over the birth of Christ. We will be heading to our Christmas Eve service tomorrow, as of tradition. :) This day a year ago Travis proposed in the living room, 3 feet from where I am sitting in the recliner. It was the happiest Christmas of my life, and I am so blessed that he chose me to live with forever. Now, off to wrap 3 more gifts before I pass out. MErry Christmas! --Mrs. Roberts