My Dad, a Modern Day Santa Claus!

Here is a picture I did of my dad as his Christmas present - him posing with his dog, Frankie, at his hunt club, Crow Hill, NC, after killing a slew of ducks. Mom cooked them up in her famous duck casserole which we feasted on for two nights. It is absolutely delicious - served with collards cooked in hammocks and apple cranberry relish - yum! Tonight we had prime rib with wine sauce, roasted brussel sprouts with balsamic vinegar and mashed potatoes. Red velvet cheesecake for dessert pushed us over the limit. Jeans feeling a little tight as I type! Time to switch from feasting to fasting!!

Anyhoo, back to dad. One of his love languages is giving big and abundantly, especially at Christmas. God has blessed him with healthy finances, so he is well able to give when his heart moves him, which is often. This year he was in an especially good mood and wanted to take the kids shopping to Sam's Club, his favorite store - by himself, without me. Well, I knew the kids wouldn't be prepared for what was about to happen, so I prompted them to get ready for a nice haul. And boy was it nice. 

Let's just say Santa Claus came to town! They came back with laptops, cameras, watches and blenders - not only that, but blue rays and Ulta gift cards. Cooleo!! That's what I call a niiiiiice Santa! The kids have already decided to make this trip to Sam's an annual event. It was a wonderful, blessed time for them.

What better way is there to enjoy the season than to give to others? Many can't take extravagant shopping trips to Sam's or the mall, but there are other ways to give. Love and time and crafty things are thoughtful and special. Hospitality and food are meaningful too. All of it points to Jesus, the most wonderful gift of all. He provides for our physical needs and desires, as well as the comfort to the soul and the spiritual food needed to survive in this evil world.  He is sooooo good!! For every one wonderful thing given by an earthly father, there are a myriad of uncountable things given by the Heavenly Father. Again, most importantly, His son, Jesus!

Merry Christmas everyone! Make it last all year!