As it is every year, my Mom will call and ask what I want for Christmas.  She is an amazing and generous person and having her for a Mom has spoiled me since childhood.  Each year I would share certain items that I want or mention stores I shop at in order to assist her in her shopping excursions.  However; over the past few years it has become more and more difficult to come up with things I “want” and/or “need”.

The reality is that over the past several years as I’ve watched family members battle (and lose their fight) against cancer I have come to realize that what I really want for Christmas (as well as the rest of the year) cannot be bought at any store.

What I really want for Christmas:

• My Mom to be free of breast cancer and able to live without the fear of re-occurrence.
• My Aunt Josie to not have suffered with multiple health issues over the last few years and have not lost her battle with bladder cancer September 26^th of this year.
• My Dad to not have lost his wife Helen (who absolutely adored him) 3 years ago to an aggressive lung cancer.
• For my family to spend time together creating wonderful memories.
• To be less focused on stuff and more focused on the people around me.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s always nice to get presents for Christmas, however; the best present I can give or receive is the gift of being present with those I love, because we never know what next year will bring.

Merry Christmas and may you have a healthy and happy holiday surrounded by those you love.