Unexpected gitfs

Christmas this year was, as we had planned it, full of the little things that make life grand.  My mother and grandmother were up from Connecticut to share in Little Man's first real Christmas.  At 12 months old there isn't much that is more exciting then tearing paper from the gifts found under the Christmas tree.  The contents of each package were of little interest, but the paper was both delicious and fun to tear to shreds.

The unexpected was at play this weekend as well.  Predictions for a dusting to an inch of snowfall resulted in over eight inches.  Our driveway is long and contains a hill flanked by two ponds on either side at the top.  Generally it doesn't become perilous until later in the winter when the ice takes hold with meaning and any thawing make runners a requirement in lieu of tires.  A newer vehicle with a fancy traction control option proved trying for those of us used to driving nothing newer than 15 years old.  Finally a shut-off option located in conjunction with a freshly plowed driveway allowed my family to return to their hotel.  It isn't that I am not accommodating to house guests, but all of my extra beds are upstairs which can prove difficult to someone in their 80s.

Returning to the farm after working on Christmas Eve I discovered a wrapped package outside the garage door.  'Santa' had visited before midnight to leave it.  I hadn't noticed any reindeer prints in the snow nor any sleigh marks in the driveway.  I collected the package and headed inside, made sure all the animals had food and water and nestled myself into bed hoping for visions of sugar plums.  Christmas morning arrived with Little Man more interested in quality time with mom than the brightly colored packages under the tree. 

After family had arrived, the mystery package was opened.  It contained several items for Little Man either without a tag or noting it was from Santa.  We are especially thankful to 'Santa' for the wonderful and unexpected package of holiday gifts. 

After an eventful year and with recent events weighing heavy on hearts we were truly blessed with generosity, no visits to the hospital this year, good food, good company and much laughter.  Here's hoping the coming year is full of the same.