santa letters.

I love traditions, especially at Christmas. One of my favorites is the annual letter to Santa. I can't remember a year not writing this letter. Once it is written, we burn the letter in a pie pan & sprinkle the ashes in the snow. The next day, the letter to Santa would appear again "taped together" ... magic, right? Anyway, for the last few years, my mom, sister, and I have found great joy in writing this letter. Usually it's quite late at night & our silly sides are apparent. Here are some snippets from the last few years (2009-present):

• This year for Christmas, Becky really just wants happiness, but she is willing to take material goods that will bring temporary happiness. (2009)

• Mom really is just reading the paper, and doesn’t care about this traditional Christmas letter, but is more concerned with the West Valley homicide. (2009)

• Please take care of our family members. Give them gifts of happiness, love, peace, and good cheer. Remind them, “We don’t have all we want, but we have all we need. Our stockings may be empty, but our hearts are full indeed.” (2009)

• As always, Cheri enjoys things to make her “pretty” for the fellows and anything vintage, lovely, or of good report. (2010)

• Mom feels that the walls in her new place now feel “loved” and are “happy to be picked” … as Becky says, “just like spirit children.” (2010)

• Cheri was supposed to save children in Mexico in December, but her service trip got cancelled due to the raging gang violence between rival drug cartels in Northern Mexico. (2010)

• Becky has a job at USAID (kind of like Mother Teresa’s executive assistant … it’s a good start). (2011)

• Cheri had the adventure of a lifetime this summer — in love and travel. Unfortunately, both were temporary. She thought he might be Mr. Right, but apparently he was Mr. Right Then. (2011)

• We’re pleased that it’s snowy, cold, and magical & that we will indeed have a white Christmas (thanks in advance for that, Santa). (2012)

• Mom also got a new position at work, which keeps her busy. Her children can’t even talk to her on the phone anymore. (2012)

• It’s been REAL, Santa. Merry Christmas & happiest new year. Peace on earth & in the middle east. (2012)

But, seriously. I am so blessed. I am grateful for family, traditions, and the magic & spirit of the season. Merry Christmas.