Our Christmas is complete.

We delivered our little crystal plates full of our sugar cookies tonight. Just a simple, clear, crystal plate covered with our bright cookies, wrapped in clear paper and tied with ribbon. Our first stop needed some cheer. They were a little down. A little stressed. A busy week. Our little plate of goodies mattered. We had taken the time to come see them, give them a hug, tell them they mean alot to our family and place our little present in their hand. It was wonderful. We felt so blessed and good about our first visit. The next home was no different. A dear friend needed to know she was special to me. I took the time to look at her beautiful home and tree. We expressed appreciation for our children and friendship. Our eyes and heart met as mothers and it mattered. She felt valued. The little offering of cookies brought tears to her eyes as I told her about my sugar cookie recipe. It was a moment. One of our stops included their son just arriving home from the Air Force. I took a moment to tell him how good he looked and how much he had grown up. I remember conversations with his mother when he was struggling in fifth grade. He knows our family has prayed for him. He knows I care about his success. He remembers us always bringing our cookies to his family. I hugged his mother. We remarked about how time flies. Her present is her son being home for the holidays. She doesn't need to tell me this. I know. We are friends. As we drive back home, my daughter remarks about how much fun this is and this is what makes Christmas. I agree. I tell her about traditions and their importance. I tell her about the heart of being a mother and making a difference to other people. I tell her about taking the time to tell your friends how much they mean to you. I want her to feel the warmth of offering simple sugar cookies in the season of love and helping others to feel they matter. We have been blessed way beyond our expectations and it has mattered.