Letters from Santa: Hollie

December 25, 2010

Dear beautiful Hollie Anne,

What can I say about such an amazing young lady? This has probably been one of the toughest years in your young life so far and you’ve truly shown a growing maturity and a strengthening of character. Your parents truly could not be more proud of the girl you are and the lady you’re becoming.

I know that school and friendships have presented some challenges this year, but I’ve seen your friendships grow and your success in school excel. Your Mommy and Daddy could not be more proud of the grades that you achieve and of the friends that you have chosen to be around. That alone says a lot about who you are.

One of the greatest areas where you’ve grown is in your maturity and willingness to help when the chips are down. During all of the hospital stays and all of the times that your Mommy and baby brother were not at home, you were a huge help and a great source of strength and comfort to your Daddy. I know for a fact that he couldn’t have made it without you. The way you help with your two brothers and the way that you wake up and go to school every day with a good attitude does NOT go unnoticed and I want you to know that I love you and appreciate you for doing your best at helping your parents.

Now, I know that as a teenager, you can be a bit of a toot. Don’t get your undies all in a knot just ‘cause I’m saying it. It’s true, sometimes you can be bratty and spout some smack at your parents, but hey…you’re not a teenager. I’m not saying it’s okay. I’m just saying I understand. You parents love you and they know that being a teenager can sometimes be a pain in the…um…well…you know. Just keep doing your best, thinking before you speak and you’ll be fine.

Remember, you’ve got two little sets of eyes looking up to and your parents are still depending on you to help them by being a good example. I’m delighted to say that you are, Hollie. You really are.

Another change you’ve went through with flying colors has been church. I know it’s been a crazy year, but you’ve kept a good attitude and I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed the youth services at church. You’ve got some great people that love youth and have their eyes on you. They want you to know that they’re there to help if you ever needed. This is what being a Christian is all about…serving God and loving and helping those around you as He would. Always strive to do this. You can never go wrong in trying to follow God’s footsteps. He’ll always bless you. Count on it.

As always, Hollie Bell, I love you and am so proud of you. I’m truly excited to see you grow and am looking forward to a great, hopefully less eventful year ahead. I love you with all my heart.

Merry Christmas,

Santa Claus (a.k.a. Daddy)