{.:.Bud.:.}

Good Morning, Friends! And Happy Friday!

Can you believe that there are 9 days left until Christmas? Holy. Moly. Where did the time go?

For me, Christmas is (and always has been) more about giving than receiving. Sure, it will be nice to wake up to a few new baubles under the tree on Christmas morning....but that's really not what the season is all about. And as I sit in my warm home, surrounded by my loved ones under the glow of my ten foot Christmas tree, I cannot help but think about all of the people who may not get to spend Christmas with their loved ones, those who are without homes, the children who Santa may miss this year....and my heart breaks into about a million pieces.

I feel so guilty. I have so much. I am so fortunate. What did I do to deserve these things? [Nothing.]

Each holiday season, DGC and I are very lucky to be able to participate in a few events and work with a few organizations to help (even if it is just a small bit...) those who are in need.

One of our favorite things to do is adopt a senior from the tree at our local CVS. The Be a Santa to a Senior concept is much like that of the Salvation Army Angel tree. Except instead of a child, it is an elderly member of our community.

DGC and I always go pick out our Senior on the weekend after Thanksgiving and do our best to fill his or her wish list. This year, we picked "Bud."


I like to imagine Bud as a very sweet elderly gentleman. Maybe he has family. Maybe he has friends. Maybe he will love the things that we picked out for him:

DGC and I loaded up all of his wishes (and a few more surprises) and returned them to the CVS, and hopefully they are on their way to Bud to make his Christmas a little brighter.


I only wish that we had the opportunity to meet Bud and take him the gifts in person. I'd sit down with him and talk his ear off... I truly believe that no one should have to be alone on Christmas, and I fully support charities and other organizations that work very hard to be sure that those who are less fortunate feel loved...especially on Christmas.

So, Merry Christmas, Bud!
Even though we will likely never meet you, you've touched our hearts more than you know. We think of you often, and we pray for you. And we hope you have an amazing holiday and that you know that you've got people who care about you.!

And Merry Christmas to all of you.