Dear Santa,

It’s been awhile since I’ve written you a letter. I guess I got too caught up in this whole adult thing and I thought it was about time I checked in.

This year, I haven’t had much Christmas spirit. I know…I’m sorry. I’ve been so busy with work and now I’m a mom of two, which makes things even busier. And we’ve all been pretty sick this whole month, with various colds and coughs. I feel like everything has felt rushed. Shopping, decorating, cooking, cleaning, wrapping – who has the time??

Then last night, my family and I went to see lights at a local Christmas village. And every year (for the past 10 years my husband and I have been going) we pick out something from the gift shop to add to our Christmas collection. We write the year on the bottom so we remember when we got it and it’s a tradition that I love. This year we picked this:

And it inspired me to write to you today. I believe in the magic that surrounds Christmas. And even though this year has been a little more rushed and busy, I am beyond blessed and I need to stop and remember that. Right. Now.

I took a minute and scrolled through my recent photos and found that I was absolutely enjoying the season. I just didn’t realize how much I’ve done this month. And I want to say thank you, Santa. I know you were behind this…the greatest gifts.

I got to spend time with my sister, mom and aunt making crafts and watching a Christmas program at a local church for our annual ‘Sister Christmas.’ We always plan a Saturday in December to spend the entire day together and it was full of hot tea, glitter and conversation.

I got to sit by the glow of my Christmas tree with my amazing husband, watching our favorite Christmas movies and enjoying our Starbucks.

I got to watch my five year old grow into the little man he is and really begin to understand what Christmas is all about. And tell me he learned about Mary and Joseph and Jesus in Sunday school and how “God is in our hearts.” And he knew what that meant. When did he get so grown up?

I got to spend time with my brother, who lives in Connecticut and I haven’t seen since June, for two full days. And watch him with my boys. He is such a sweet uncle and godfather and I miss him terribly, but I’m proud of him working his dream job at ESPN and making a name for himself. He used to be my baby brother, but now he is a big, strong man. When did HE get so grown up?

I got to share an early Christmas dinner and drink a few cocktails with my sister and laugh like we always do. She is one of the best people I know. She loves unconditionally and she’s always there with a smile and a helping hand. She is a perfect aunt and I love her dearly. Being with both my siblings, and all of our family, during this time of year is everything.

I got to spend time with friends – new and old. And in 2017, I look forward to making more time to spend with everyone I love and that loves me. You all know who you are.

And I got to sit on my couch in the morning, holding my sweet baby boy, with a cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful snow outside. Winter really is magical.

Christmas hasn’t happened yet. We still have a few days to stop and slow down. I still have lots of family and friends to see and visit. I will enjoy every single moment the next few days bring.

I know this year may be hard for you. If you are lonely, if you have lost someone, if you are hurting. Please know that I love you and I am thinking of you.

We lost my Papa Jack on Christmas Eve 10 years ago and it was the hardest Christmas I’ve ever had. There was joy and happiness in the loveliness of the day, but such sadness and pain at our great loss.

Santa, you’ve given me great gifts this year. I only ask for a few more: more patience, more time with family and friends, health, happiness and love.

Thank you,

Tara

From my home to yours, Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays.
No matter what you celebrate, may your season be full of love and hope.