It's definitely about the time I spend with my family. As an 8 year cancer survivor I wasn't sure I'd be here for one more Christmas let alone 8. It's about getting up in the dark and plugging in the Christmas tree, sitting down with a cup of joe and counting my Christmas blessings. I sit here this Christmas morning with a ten year old son who was just 2 when I was diagnosed and I am grateful to be in his life and smile and laugh as he impatiently waits for his 24 year old brother and his girlfriend to arrive so he can start opening presents! For the 10 year old it's all about the presents as it should be. Merry Christmas everyone.

Christmas is about family and traditions for me, spending time with loved ones, whether they be family or firends, near or far. It is the day we honor the birth of our Lord and remember HE is the reason for the season. It means giving, not only in the form of presents, but gifts from the heart. This year for me it also includes a new tradition of lighting a candle and letting it burn all day and doing 26 random acts of kindness to honor all those who have tragically been killed by violence or accidents. It is a day of remembrance and sharing. Merry Christmas to your home from mine!