I Was always the one in the family to want to snoop through bags for my Christmas gift. I would often wait till my parents went to bed and I was totally sure they had fallen to sleep. I would sneak out of bed, and walk so softly toward the Christmas tree. I would stand there gazing at all the presents my sister and I had sitting there.

My birthday is december 31, so I would look to see, what I had asked for, that was not under the tree. I the knew what my Birthday gift would be. My parents always made sure my birthday was not included wit the Christmas holiday. Now as a grown woman, I explain to my husband the importance of keeping the same tradition going.

One Christmas Eve, I was preparing for the annual event to tip toeing to the tree. Just as I rounded the corner and the tree would be in sight, my father snapped the camera. I was so sure I was as quiet as a mouse.

As I tell my children today, I was your age once and found out parents know more than you think.

Star Candy was always around my home growing up. I can see the basket now sitting on the kitchen counter. My mom saved several baskets for using later for all kinds of things.

Warm Regard for a Blessed Holiday Season,

Mrs. Sheri Derr