Christmas in February

Last weekend, a large box arrived at our house, and it became Christmas all over again.

For whatever reason, we can be sent huge boxes from the U.S. stuffed with anything that will fit and without worry over weight, for under $75. Since we couldn't go home for the holidays, we had mom send us a "Balikbayan Box" of goodies, but, of course, she couldn't resist throwing in several of her own surprises.

When the box was brought upstairs, Ace could barely contain himself. "Mommy Mommy, look! Box! Open it! Peas?" he exclaimed. He just could not wait to see what was inside. The day was a busy one, though, so we decided to wait until the next afternoon, when we'd have the time to go through it all properly. While Ace slept that night, I took everything out and organized it on the couch. I then realized that Ace would see it all in the morning, and we would have a hard time convincing him to go to the market and to the orphanage to drop off his birthday donations instead of delving into the "pesents." So, I covered everything with two big blankets and hoped for the best.

It worked.

After his nap on Sunday, we all ventured into the living room, music on and camera ready. Ace finally realized what all those bumps under the blankets might be...

We were so thankful for all of the thoughtful gifts and goodies that came out of that box. It was such a lovely surprise. Aiston was spoiled with some new clothes, a previously-loved and totally realistic tool set, wooden puzzles and a lockbox, books and a recycled plastic airplane. We, the parents, were also showered with some books, gift cards, special ornaments and cards, homemade calendars and stuff for the Shoug house. Watching Ace enjoy these things and realizing the efforts that went into getting that box here made me tear up. I was overcome with gratitude because we are just so lucky to have the life we have.