Part 3 of that Christmas List thing

I really like you people. Even when you give me hives. My sister-in-law, Kristin, showed up on Report Night with a Yankee Candle that smelled like Christmas trees. I almost punched her in the stomach for being so awesome. It smells exactly like I was imagining in my mind. And then Sarah came bearing a homemade peppermint candy tree decoration "centerpiece" (posed as a visual aid, that sneak) that I put next to my candle and I felt like my house was instantly transformed into a house of holiday cheer. Then, Eric decided to cash in his nickels (I mean this in the most literal sense of the words) and bought me the stocking holders I wanted from Target. Except that we couldn't find a full set of four at one Target. So Eric, either to become the Winner of Most Amazing Husband Ever, or to get laid, drove to four different Targets to get them for me. And I love them like crazy. He probably got me pregnant over that one. (Which could suck, because then I'd need five... and they're discontinued... so............ we didn't think that through all that well, did we?)

Then, a couple of days ago I get this box in the mail, and I start thinking, "Rachel, if this is from you, I'm going to punch your baby's face" and of course I mean that in the most loving way. And I open it and it's the all-time most perfect tree topper I've ever seen, and it comes with a funny note from "Anonymous" who mentions Spock, so then I decide to go with it, and just let it be Anonymous, because I love her too much to take away the fun of being a Anonymous Gift Donor. But it's perfect, and it made my heart sing. Then yesterday, I get this big box on my front door, and it's probably the prettiest wreath I've ever seen, (AND IT LIGHTS UP, LIKE MAGIC (if electricity is still considered magic in some circles)) and I hang it on my door, and I think, "I feel bad that I'm going to have to punch that baby." It's perfect, and beautiful, and I think I'll just keep it forever and ever.

This year wasn't going to be all that "festive." I knew we would get a tree, but beyond that I figured we could just save up for the other stuff and get it next year or so. I don't NEED a decorated house to celebrate Christmas, and not to get all Jesus-y on you (except yes), but I fully recognize and appreciate the fact that Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on Christ and the sacrifice He made, and the love He feels for us. The material stuff is just bonus. And yet, when I received each of these gifts from friends and family, I really put two and two together and recognized that the love I felt from those who gave such thoughtful gifts is familiar and has a source. Thanks for sending me love. Thanks for the reminders. Thanks for making my home feel Chrismassy, not because of the things adorning my shelves and doors, although they are perfect and wonderful, but because of the love required to give them. I promise not to keep it all to myself.

Now please stop sending me stuff, or I'm going to kick you all in your shins.