I might not be a small kid anymore, unquestionably I am a big one. So when I found a note from Santa under the tree this morning I was delighted.  "A dear friend of yours loves and asked to see you. I put gas in your tank, drive to visit her today and remember to take your overnight bag! Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas!" ~Santa Claus 

As a pot of coffee is perking on the stove I am mentally packing my backpack. Gift giving will be a wrapped baking pan I am returning from an earlier visit. Why that? Because this season isn't about gifting. It is about recognizing blessings in life, and being with someone who has been a r.e.a.l  friend for over fifteen years. She knows I am struggling at this time and wanted  me to be with her. Yes, she is a rock in my life, one full of love and words of strength and courage. 

I will wake Blue shortly. He knows nothing about this Christmas gift from Santa and surely he too will be pleased. George is a good friend to him, and the four of us being together is always lively, if nothing. And then Tucker, oh he will be in his glory. He gets a long car ride, his favorite activity in life, along with a visit to the country where he is free to roam about unleashed.

Much to my surprise a few gifts showed at our doorstep this year. We expected none. Though it may sound silly, I am tickled pink to say I got two pairs of socks. Hey, I needed them desperately and they are the fuzzy kind which I think are fun. Blue got a nice pair of Thinsulate gloves, so his hands will stay toasty warm throughout winter. Tucker found a bag of fine quality chicken jerky treats, in fact he informed us they were in the house before Blue and I knew it. Dogs and their sniffers!

A package from SIS arrived with favorites. A pound of Starbucks Christmas Blend beans and a grinder, tiramisu, hats and scarves. I still think she has psychic abilities. I love Starbucks coffee and needed a warm hat for winter. Also a photo album full of recent pictures of family member who live too far away to see brought smiles to our faces.

An evening out with my Dad and Step-Mother for dinner, another big treat. Time with my Dad is on the top three list of things that matter to me most in the world. A three hour visit topped off with them coming over to our new apartment. Pleasing a parent, no matter how old you are is very gratifying, and Dad was pleased to see we are continuing to pull ourselves up from the difficulties we faced the past six years. It has been a long road. A little recognition of our struggle does matter and encourage us to continue to move forward.

I even received a luxury item this year, a total surprise in every way. Arriving in a white plastic mailer, from an unknown address and sender I was clueless. Inside was a bottle of an all time favorite Calvin Klein fragrance. Needless to say the first thing I did was put some on and enjoy smelling extra pretty. I haven't had any fragrances since the hurricanes years ago, just had to put the monies we've had toward necessities. This was a wonderful gift.

Finally, and maybe best, Snoozy popped up here on OD Christmas Eve. It is nice to know, though his heart aches like never before he is doing well. OD is a great community, the circle of friendships I am in is one that allows us to smart off with each other, but also share our tears and challenges and receive love and support from friends near and far. 

Now, as I continue to keep the Christmas music playing I must pack. I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and time that fills your heart with happiness.