My kids are amazing little gift-givers. Scott takes them Christmas shopping for me and I always love hearing the stories behind the presents, the stories of the hunt, and their adventures in the mall (taking turns in the Hurricane chamber). A lot of the time they know exactly what they want to get me before they head out to the stores. And the gifts usually fall into one of 3 categories: 1) something perfect 2) something thoughtful 3) something As Seen on TV.
A few examples from past years . . .
something perfect: a thermos for my hot chocolate (I love my hot chocolate)
something thoughtful: a treasure chest full of love notes (Payton originally wanted to fill it with jewels, but that wasn't quite in the budget)
something As Seen on TV: Aqua Globes (because they were sure that I needed them)
This year Anna's gift falls into category 1 and 2.
When I opened her gift I was dumb-struck . . . how did she know?
It's an interlocking heart necklace (one for her, one for me) that reads I love you. As I sat there surprised and smiling she said, "we both wear a necklace and then when I sit on your lap we can put our hearts together and it says 'I love you.'"
So sweet.
When I was in 5th and 6th grade there were a slew of girls who began donning similar necklaces with the words "best friends". It always made me a bit sad because I didn't have a friend to share a shiny silver necklace with. Then to see them show up on the last day of school before Christmas break with gifts in hand to exchange with their besties . . . I wished that I had someone to share that special BFF connection with. But, that's just part of growing up that I'm sure everyone has experienced. The good news: things get better.
And the best news: I have a sweet, beautiful daughter who loves me and will be my friend forever.