12/15/2025
MORNING GOLD: Early this morning, a quote crossed my path that said, "Deep down inside we know that the best gifts don't come in brightly-colored packages or fancy envelopes and they're not sitting under a tree somewhere... The best gifts come from the heart. They come when we look at each other, REALLY look at each other and say 'You mean a lot to me' or 'I'm so glad you're a part of my life.' A gift like that will never go out of style or be forgotten or be returned for a different size. A gift like that can change the world." — Ron Atchison
That got me to thinking.. The best presents DO come rom the heart, carrying thought, care and love. A handwritten letter, a homemade treat or even a shared experience can mean far more than the latest gadget. These gifts reflect time, attention, and a deep understanding of the recipient, reminding them that they are truly valued.
Heartfelt gifts also create lasting memories. A photo album of cherished moments, a playlist of favorite songs, or a simple gesture of kindness like telling someone how happy you are that they are in your life can warm the other person's spirit long after the holidays end.
Ultimately, it’s not about the price tag but the intention behind the gift. When we give from the heart, we celebrate connection, gratitude, and joy—the true spirit of the season.
I backed up the gold thoughts with Owl City's song Bah Humbug
That moment when the first few flakes start falling
Is the moment before I burst into tears
'Cause snow in the air means Christmas shopping
And the thought of it all just stresses me out
Wo-oh-oe is me
Wo-oh-oe is me
Would she kinda like this canary yellow?
Or does she already own way too many scarves?
I could get her a backpack and something to carry
But this is way too much pressure, it's breaking my heart
Wo-oh-oe is me
Wo-oh-oe is me
I'm ready to wrap that perfect Christmas gift
But I haven't found it yet
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you
So I'll give you my heart
I wander around the store again and again
But all I do is shrug
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you
And I'm ready to say "Bah humbug"
(Bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah)
Bah-bah-bah-bah, bah humbug
(Bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah-bah)
Bah-bah-bah-bah
I could get her a gift card to Olive Garden
But what if Red Lobster is way more her thing?
I don't even know
Well how 'bout a bike, or like a ukulele?
Or how 'bout I jump out the window? (Window, window, window, window)
Yeah, how 'bout I jump out the window? (Window, window, window, window)
Singing "Joy to the World" face down in the snow
I'm ready to wrap that perfect Christmas gift
But I haven't found it yet
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you
So I'll give you my heart, I hope it'll do
I wander around the store again and again
But all I do is shrug
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you
And I'm ready to say
I'll wrap myself in paper and sit under the tree
'Cause the best gift I can give you is this heart inside of me
I'm ready to wrap that perfect Christmas gift
But I ain't found it yet
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you (here's my heart)
So I'll give you my heart, I hope it'll do
I wander around the store again and again
But all I do is shrug
'Cause I don't have a clue what to get you
And I'm 'bout ready to say "Bah humbug"
Sorry for the hand towels
Bah humbug
Sorry for the Yankee candles
Bah humbug
Sorry for all this useless junk
The best gift I have to give
Is my love
