This Christmas....

Merry Christmas Guys~ 

2 years ago, my Women's Org collaborated with DesTaja Happy Home, out of Stoughton,Ma. We were able to bless 2 single moms with giftcards and a few other things( DesTaja assisted us with giftcard purchases for their dinner and little gifts, my women's org partner Lina B, provided& signed her book). This year, we did not sponsor any families as our blanket drive was bigger than expected( we fed over 200+ men, women and children).. 

However, my heart was filled as my mom called and shared with me the kind gesture my Aunt Sylvia performed this Christmas( Founder of DesTaja Happy Home). A little background on DesTaja Happy Home: my aunt founded this home a few years back. Her oldest daughter experienced a traumatic rape at the age of 12. It took years of healing for both Sylvia and her daughter. Through a few other life events, Sylvia realized it was time for her to give back. Founding this home has been very near and dear to her heart. I can honestly say, it has changed my aunt in so many ways. I've always loved her but I now have a new respect for her and what she's been called to do in this life. 

She's also a breast cancer survivor. While in Chemo, she met another woman who was also fighting cancer. 40+ years old, single Momm ( oldest daughter in the military, 2 or 3 young boys). Cancer had eaten half of her body but she still wanted to fight. Sadly, she died earlier this year. 

She also experienced the loss of another friend who left behind small children. With young children, it's more important to recurve gifts than money so, My aunt along with another "Secret Santa" decided to be a blessing to that family this year. While she was out shopping yesterday, she was talking to my mom subtracting things off her list. As she stood in line, a woman tapped her back and said, " I'm sorry, I didn't mean to easedrop but I heard you talking on the phone and wanted to help, here's a few dollars towards your cause, I hope this helps". The woman placed 5 crisp $100 bills in my aunt's hand. I can only imagine the fullness of joy that filled her heart. 

Yes, it's great to take care of our own families but when we step out of our 4 walls and taken care of others who are less fortunate, that's when we truly understand the meaning of Christmas. 

My aunt is probably going to kill me then cry( yes in that order) but today, I wanted to salute Sylvia " Rebecca" Hobbs. Founder of DesTaja Happy Home. I love you lady and I'm proud of who you are becoming.. 

Sincerely, 

NekaTSpeaks 

He's a Believer...

Here's my truth, I stopped believing in Santa a long time ago. I remember 1 year in particular, my brothers and I were acting like pure donkeys. We woke up on Christmas morning to  an empty tree. Boy were we upset. We each took turns knocking on my mother's bedroom

Door inquiring about our Christmas gifts. I remember that year in vivid detail. I had requested a clothes of course, money and shoes. There was this sweatsuit in particular I wanted and I knew " Santa" was going to bring it. What a sad reality when we woke up and every gift was gone. Lol 

We sat quietly in our bedrooms waiting for our gifts to magically appear. My mom continued on with the day like it was nothing. Friends were outside with their toys and we sat and waited. 

Finally around 7pm( I remember because Wheel of Fortune had just come on), my Momm came into the living and gave us our gifts. That was the absolute longest wAit ever... Whew, now that I've vented:: 

My 4 year old loves the idea of Santa. While I'm no Scrooge, I'm just no longer fond of the whole Santa idea. For the last 2 weeks, our Afterschool talk has been about Santa. "Mommy, we have to leave Santa milk and cookies".. "Mommy we have to leave food for the reindeer".. 

And while I'm not fond of Santa, I love Elf on the Shelf( check back tomorrow to meet our Elf Marissa) and my bestie has called me out on that lol. "Cheneka Trene', how can you participate with Elf on the Shelf but no Santa? We have Elves because they work for Santa".. I laughed but it made sense. 

I've decided, although it's late in the holiday season to once again indulge in the idea of Santa. It's not about me. It's about the joy it's going to bring to my son's face knowing Santa ate the ginger snaps & cranberry juice( suggested by my guy friend because I'm more than likely going to set the gifts up under the tree as Santa's helper). It's about the joy and cheer Santa brings to all the little girls and boys. 

So here's to you Santa and all of your elves and the Mommies & Daddies who work for you.. 

Signed, 

Cheneka Believes