Meant to post over the weekend...just didn't get around to it. Anyhow, was thinking back this morning to St. Nick's feast day (Saturday) and what a nice day it was here. Other than the fact that the kids were up before 7a checking stockings. But fortunately, they let Lucy and I sleep in just a bit longer. Although when I got up a little closer to the 8 o'clock mark, I'd wished I would have joined them earlier. Most of their chocolates were gone, the orange slices (though there were only a handful) now gone, and they were working on the shelled peanuts. Who needs breakfast?!
Later that morning, the older kids organized a "gift exchange" for all the kids. (I should mention that we don't typically draw names or exchange gifts in this house, so it was cute that they came up with it...and with such organized formality.) Alice and Emma helped everyone to draw a name, and then helped them to "shop" from the toys in the basement. They were incredibly thoughtful about it...choosing favorite toys that they knew the recipient would love, then wrapping them with plastic grocery bags. Their efforts culminated under the tree where each child patiently waited to give. It was priceless. Charlie got his favorite plastic wrench from Rose, Sam recieved his favorite black high tops that Alice remembered "He wears everyday, so I know he'll love them!" (and he did.)
Moments like these, when everyone cooperates with such generosity, is one of the greatest graces I receive. Thank you Lord for everyday blessings!
