An ode to things that make me happy at Christmas

Thank you portable DVD player-- for saving our daughter and us during 3 days and 20 hours of driving. In your glowing blue screen we found solace, sanity...and Elmo.

Thank you M&M company-- thank you for making mint, pretzel, and peanut butter M&Ms. You made our trip merry and sweet.

Thank you anonymous rich guy in a black escalade for driving me home when I stopped to ask for directions after I got myself helplessly lost when I went running yesterday. Not only was your lawn impeccably decorated with millions of lights, but you truly embodied the spirit of Christmas by helping out a poor soul without a sense of direction. Thank you also for not kidnapping me when I got into your car.

Thank you Oreos for making it so easy to make Christmas candy.

Thank you Christian congregations everywhere for holding Christmas Eve services that welcome everyone to come and participate in honoring the birth of the savior.

Thank you Roosters, for supplying at least one food challenge that still makes my husband sweat.

Thank you, my body, for remembering how to run. I know it has been awhile.

Thank you, sun, for coming out today. Stars, kudos to you as well for shining so bright tonight. You couldn't have timed it more perfectly.

Thank you metabolism for putting up with all the extra holiday treats I have been consuming. I know I make you work really hard this time of year.

Thank you Christmas music. You never get old and you never fail to inspire.

Thank you family and friends for making us feel so loved this holiday season. For showing us how truly blessed we are. For making this the best Christmas ever.