My favorite part of Christmas are the simple acts of kindness that are given repeatedly during this season. There's something about Christmas that brings out the best in us.
I was the recipient of one of the sweetest acts. It warmed the cockles of my heart to be loved in this way. (Not sure what cockles are, but they were definitely warmed.) I have mentioned my sweet Hmong neighbor - she has become one of my favorite people. Our communication is tricky and simple because we don't speak much of each other's language (although her English is way better than my Hmong!) So we tend to communicate mostly through smiles, squeezes and hugs.
About a week ago I saw her at church and told her how happy it made me to hang the strawberry ornaments she gave me last year on my tree. Later that week I went to visit her and take her a little something, and this is what she had for me: a whole bushel of strawberries and candy canes. My tree is overflowing. It was one of the most endearing gestures I've ever received. Especially from one maker to another.
Merry Christmas (Season's Greetings, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Feliz Navidad, Happy Holidays, Joy to the World, Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward men, etc, etc, - whatever your preference) to you and yours! Thank you so much for the on going love and support you've shown me over the years. I am truly thankful. I wish I could share my handmade strawberry abundance with all of you!
Kate
Your post warmed the cockles of my heart - thank you.
Merry Christmas!
Kim
Goodness! Didn't you tickle me with your opening lines? I've used that phrase just about forever and I've no clue what cockles are nor where in the heart one might reasonably be expected to find them. Nonetheless, your story made mine feel toasty and warm! Merry strawberry Christmas!
Beth T.
Thank you for sharing this story. The love, friendship, and generosity in this story are truly heart-warming--as is the inclusiveness of your holiday message.
Lizzie
I love to read updates about your Hmong neighbor. That bushel of berries and canes is the sweetest! God Jul och Gott Nytt År from Sweden 🙂
Lilpuddin
Thank you for that wonderful post! What you wrote about people showing love to one another through small, heartfelt (and handmade!) gestures really resonated with me.