That's what gifts are for...

I was "fortunate" that I lived in a household that bought (haha) into the capitalistic spirit of Christmas. My brother and I often received many gifts each year. Thinking back, I have no idea how my family was financially able to shower us with gifts. We were poor. Although I was not clear on that then, I know now how true it was/is. As we got older, the adults began to ask us the amazing and often burdensome question: "what do you want for Christmas?" which resulted in some of our gifts being more like requests...

Often, I would become jealous when my mom would take my brother places without me (I still feel a way about never getting to attend the TV Commercial Awards...). My best memories are the experiences with people I love. Time in the bed with Mommy, vacations with auntie Lin, being at the table with Niece. The important thing to me was the time and experiences. As I got older, I moved away from the experiences, steadily towards the things. The "things" were my way to say how I felt. Mr. Gold has helped a lot in resetting my needle to "what's important, is what's important".

My brother now has three amazing children, Cielle, Davin and Delaney. These babies are amazing! These are the type of kids where, if you had kids, or if you knew some kids, and you saw these babies, you would look at that kid you know and hope that these babies are that kid's friends for life! They are bold and beautiful and courageous and loving. All day, I have been thinking about what I should do for them this year. I have not been the the best thing giver as of late and I do want them to know I think of them with such adoration.

I decided that I am going to avoid, as much as possible, gifts for adults, but I do want to do something for the kids in my life. I would like to give them an experience and develop a memory that is warm and loving and gold. I was thinking that maybe I can start a new tradition with them. I want to take them to plays or shows and museums and the botanical gardens, have them engage in a tiny part of the world, so that they are curious and excited to see more!

I want to say thank you to my nieces and nephew for giving me the chance to give again. The gift of time is so precious and I am happy to take the opportunity to appreciate any time we can spend together! Cielle, Davin and Delaney, I am Gold because of you.