CHRISTMAS GIFT

Oh, my, what a gift from God.

Actually, it's a gift in two-parts. It began when I told an aide about my mother's jingle bell necklace, with a white bell decorated to look like a reindeer. She wore it every day during Christmas. I lost track of it since, and I miss it.

A couple of days later, the aide returned--with a jingle bell necklace. I have worn it every day, with many happy thoughts of Mom. The warmth is increased when I realize the aide really listened to me, and gave me something from her heart to mine.

A thoughtful, wonderful gift.

What happened last night gave me chills.

My roommate gave my grandchildren stuffed animals. I asked my granddaughter, Jordan, what she would name her bear.

Now, her mother says Jordan said "Kaylie," the name of her best friend at school.

What I heard was "Katie." And my heart stopped.

My daughter, Jolene, named all of her dolls "Katie."

In case you don't know. . . or have forgotten. . .Jordan was conceived when Jolene died. Aunt and niece share a special connection.

Hearing the name "Katie" from Jordan's lips felt like Jolene had come down from heaven to wish me a blessed Christmas.

Thank you, God, for the gift of family, on earth and above.