In a hidden corner of the North Pole, beyond the busy toy factory and past the reindeer stables, lies a quiet little place known as the Elf's Magical Repair Shop. It's a place where old toys are given new life. You know, like in Toy Story 2, when the old man meticulously repairs and restores Woody. It's just like that.

As we leave Delaware and head towards America’s first capital, Philadelphia, I feel a sense of nostalgia. This city is close to my heart; it’s the closest major city to our home, where my family lives throughout of the year. The skyline of Philadelphia has changed over the years with the erection of new, taller skyscrapers. But for me personally, I’ll always remember the way Philadelphia skyline looked when I was a kid in the 90s.

Shannon's story has a special place in his heart, she reminds me of my daughter when she learned to ride a bike. I wanted to encourage her... to keep pushing her limits... keep exploring this world. I remember it like it was yesterday, with my daughter's new bike skills and her 7th birthday, all she wanted to do was ride bikes all around the Ocean City New Jersey boardwalk. And before you know, your children are off to the races.

To all the young dreamers out there, remember this: embrace your unique talents and never be afraid to be yourself. Everyone has something special to offer, and sometimes it just takes a little courage to discover it. Just like Robin, you have the potential to change the world with your light, your laughter, and your own, one-of-a-kind magic.

It finally hit me… There’s nothing more magical than a child’s smile. A genuine smile can be contagious. It spreads like wildfire, softening hearts along the way. In those moments, I knew I’d found my purpose: I wanted to put smiles on as many faces as I could. Right now, I do that by telling stories. One day, I’ll do it by leaving gifts for as many children as I can reach.

Remember, being on the Nice List isn’t about being perfect; it’s about striving to be the best version of yourself, to treat others with kindness and respect. It’s never too late to change and make a positive impact. I hope to see a better version of all of you next year, a version that makes you proud when you look in the mirror.

Now this gave me pause. Benjamin was a sweet child, always quick to forgive and forget, and I cared for him deeply. If he had found it in his heart to forgive his brothers, maybe I should too. “Alright,” I finally changed my mind, my heart warming to the idea. “Let’s move them to the Nice List. After all, Christmas is a time for forgiveness, second chances, and giving, more and more giving.”

My favorite dogs are the old dogs. The ones that have seen Their child grow up right before their eyes. A dog will live his whole life in the time it takes a child to grow up. These dogs were young and full of spirit when their “kid” came into the world. They smelled the new scents when a baby came home, and they tolerated hundreds of dirty diapers. They were there when that toddler took their first steps, and they chased after as their kid learned to ride a bike. All those years, they just couldn’t wait for their friend to come home from school.

Her creativity blossomed. Soon she was creating her own designs and patterns. Her parents often found her admiring her latest masterpiece. Even Kevin joined in sometimes, helping her create complex scenes and sharing in those lasting memories with his sister. This early love for creating with light set Monica on a journey to brighten the world.

Storytelling became my compass, guiding me back to myself. Through these tales, I rediscovered the joy of exploration and the thrill of the unknown. I gave myself permission to be vulnerable, to embrace imperfection. Through these stories, I confronted my fears, celebrated my triumphs, and found meaning in shared experiences.