Once again on this chilly Christmas day, our hearts are warmed by the outpouring of love and support you have shown our family. What a joy it has been to see the children relish the sights and sounds of the season! Our greatest gift this year is being home together as a family celebrating each other. We praise God for these precious memories and are so thankful that Shafer is doing well at this time.
Little feet began to pitter-patter down the stairs about six-thirty this morning. Wishes were fulfilled from 5 well-thought out Santa lists. Sharayah realized her dream of a surfboard (the movie Soul Surfer and Bethany Hamilton have stirred a passion within her), Shafer finally got his own iPod, Shanel was thrilled with her Pandora bracelet and underwater camera, Shaw loved his Razor Flash Rider and Hot Wheels Race Track, and Shayli is now updating her bedroom with her new sheets and Poof Chair! Stockings were overflowing with Ghirardelli caramel chocolates and lots of other surprises…
What a blessing to see the kids have so much fun! It seems that each Christmas just keeps getting better and better. It is such a joy to watch the children play together and run from toy to toy.
Then, to listen as they pray and thank God for the real meaning of Christmas… The Gift we were given long ago in the manger.
Now that we are three years into our journey with Shafer, there is greater appreciation for every day…so Christmas was especially grand. Even though I wouldn’t have chosen our new normal, I wouldn’t trade lives with anyone.
My heart dances with excitement just to watch Shafer, Shaw, Shanel, Sharayah, and Shayli drift off to sleep and know that life breathes in and out of each of them! Oh, how I cherish the little things I once took for granted…
Christmas 2010: www.jadadaves.com/myvideos/Christmas2010.swf
Christmas 2009: www.jadadaves.com/myvideos/Christmas2009.swf
Christmas 2008: www.jadadaves.com/myvideos/Christmas2008.swf