Early Christmas Presents

In some ways, getting to watch all of the holiday classics with my kids is an early Christmas present each year. And I definitely felt like I was getting an early present yesterday when I realized my nine-year-old son is taking the Iowa tests this week so there is no spelling. I realize it sounds awful, but working on spelling each day with him is not on my "fun" list. However, I found out last night that my best friend and her family truly received the best early Christmas present of all, and it helped me to remember the things that are truly important. Her brother-in-law is in the National Guard, and has returned home after finishing his tour in the Middle East. They should be visiting with him now as I write this. We are all grateful for his safe return, as well as the safe return of his unit. Welcome home Mark!