When you are little, Christmas has the magic of Santa. When you are a little older, you look forward to all the stuff you'll get. Once you have kids, you look forward to giving them the magic you experienced as a child.

I hope I can give my boys wonderful Christmas memories like I have. We made a gingerbread house together last night. They loved it! They were surprised that I let them decorate it. I hope to give them a go at decorating sugar cookies within the next couple of days. I remember being so proud of the ones I decorated and hoped that we would give those ones to friends and family.

My parents are true givers. My Mom has always gotten joy out of giving. I couldn't even count how many gifts, parties, etc she has given. She especially gave to those she knew couldn't give back. I am more selfish than my Mom but I did acquire her love of giving. I even enjoyed making boxes of food for the needy when I was in girl scouts.

My wish list now mostly consists of hopes for hosting gatherings of friends and family. Wishing everyone could be with us, be and happy and healthy. I look forward to touching base with those we only hear from this one time of year. I wish everyone happy, healthy holidays!