CHRISTMAS 2008

The best part of my Christmas, besides having my family all together, was the gift that Brad gave me. I knew something big was coming. I just had a feeling. I had asked him a few weeks earlier if he had spent a lot of money on me and that if he did he shouldn't. He basically told me to never mind and just wait for Christmas. He was so excited on Christmas morning. He handed me 3 packages to open. The first one was a box of tissues, the second was a brown paper bag and the third was a note to go look in the garage. Of course, then I'm thinking he bought a new car. Everyone was so excited and I was so nervous. I got out to the garage and sitting on my car was a small miniature Mustang. (BTW, I LOVE Mustangs!) Anyway, I look at the car and I'm very confused. Brad then told me to look closer at the small car. Inside of it was the most beautiful diamond ring EVER!!! I took it out and put it on. I couldn't keep from crying. I needed those tissues and I think Brad needed the brown paper bag! He was nervous that I would be mad. I was just the opposite though! I love it and I love him. He proposed marriage to me 25 years earlier on Christmas morning! It was a beautiful and romantic way to let me know that he still loves me and is glad that he's married to me. I love him with all my heart - big diamonds or no diamonds. He is an amazing husband and I'm so grateful that he has been in my life for the last 25 + years!

We had an incredible and fun Christmas. "Thank you" to everyone who thought of us this year. We have been blessed beyond measure. Mostly though, I think every year I learn to appreciate Christmas on a whole new level. I'm so grateful for my Savior, his life and his miraculous birth!