What is the Christmas you’ll never forget? 

I was a Freshman in high school. It was just my mom & me @ home, & it had been a tough year – lots of layoffs in the auto industry – but I had gotten my braces off & mom had promised me a new 10-speed bike – but I also wanted a varsity jacket, because that’s what high schoolers do - ask for more.

I remember getting up Christmas morning & seeing that Schwinn under the tree – but no varsity jacket – until mom pointed out the card on the tree. The card said the jacket was still waiting for my name on the back, & we would be able to pick it up after the first of the year.

I know that Christmas is more than presents, but in a year where my mom was unemployed for much of the year – I did not expect ONE of those gifts, let alone both – & now it serves as a reminder to not underestimate mom - or God - because when you least expect it, you can expect it.