Loss for Words

Sometimes I question the topics I write about on the blog becuase I know it's public and that sometimes people other than family might read it. But the main reason I write on this blog is to preserve memories for my family and so I want to write about this.

Last night I was expecting a friend to come by to pick up some Christmas decorations I was going to give her. I had just sent her a text message telling her not to ring the doorbell (because Elisabeth had just gone to bed) when less than a minute later, the doorbell rang. I figured she just hadn't gotten the text and it was fine anyway.

When I went to the door, my friend was not standing there, but in place were two huge, black garbage sacks tied with ribbon and a card with our name on it. In the distance was a dark figure running away. I was absolutely shocked and immediately felt overwhelmed and humbled by what I was pretty sure would be inside. The card read: "Wishing you a merry 12 days of Christmas"

The girls came up to help open the bags and we found inside several neatly wrapped packages all labeled days 1-12 and some even with our names on them (spelled correctly, I might add. This secret Santa pays attention to detail!)

I really feel at a loss for words. I can't believe someone would do this for our family, or why they felt we deserved this. Part of me feels like there are so many other people out there who need this more than us. Sure, things have felt a little tighter the last several months for us, but we have all that we really need. At the same time I am so, so touched by this kind and generous act of service and love towards my family, that it brings tears to my eyes.

I have been the recipient of so much generosity these past couple of months. And I NEVER, ever want to forget these things. I want more than anything to pay it forward whenever and however I can.

So, whoever you are (and I don't need to know)...thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Day 1: Ornaments for each of the girls and one for Justin and I

Day 2: Hair bands for the big girls, Christmas socks and bow for Elisabeth and the most amazingly soft and snuggle blanket which I have already staked my claim on ;)

I know my girls won't fully comprehend this act of love at this point, but I hope in the future they will. When I was in 4th grade there was a time my Dad was unemployed. A similar thing happened to our family. I remember a large black bag that had presents in it. I got a white Teddy Bear that was named Tapioca. I kept that bear until we moved into this house (I think I have since parted with it, but all of a sudden I wish I still had him). I always cherished that bear and what it meant. I hope my girls will feel the same as they grow older and look back on this Christmas.