Christmas Blessings

The Christmas season has been upon us for quite some time yet if you are like me, I never seem to catch up. Although this year, I do admit that I enjoyed a bit slower pace as I purposefully scaled back speaking engagements and appearances as to gear up for a hectic January.

It was a true blessing indeed when I was able to help with Lexi's parade with her dance group and to enjoy several days of baking cookies. Many times those small moments can slip past and looking back we wonder where the time went. I have cherished each activity and giggle like never before.

On the verge of "tween-dom", at 11 years old, Lexi still believes that Santa arrives in style and that the reindeer really do need glitter to guide their way. Prior to moving, we lived in Warrenton and our first Christmas there was extremely special. At just 4 years old, Lexi saw Santa walking down the street right past our home. Upset, we calmed her nerves and just reminded her that he would be back when she went to sleep. She quickly rushed into bed and like a flash in the night, Santa delivered a sleigh-full of toys. To this day, she tells other children that story and can testify that Santa is, without a doubt, real.

Santa even paid her a visit this year on Christmas Eve Day, just to drop off a special little gift. She hadn't been feeling well and even had a fever but managed to enjoy a few minutes of Christmas magic! She made sure her list was complete, which included the request of a new kitten, but she asked Santa to not tell her dad that she had made that request (only because she knows that it would receive a veto!). While Santa did deliver almost everything on her list, except the kitten, it was a beautiful Christmas morning!

It's not the decorations, presents or pretty lights of the season that we are grateful for. It's the time with family, loved ones, and blessings bestowed by the birth of Christ that make this time of year so special. For me, each of these things is enhanced by the knowledge that I would not be here to enjoy them without the most precious gift of life I have been given by blood donors.

Each year at this time I reflect upon the most amazing gift of life I have been given and hope that I show my appreciation through my work, life and dedication to the cause. Peace, love and blessings to you this Christmas season and best wishes in the coming year!