The Master Gift Giver.

Gift giving is not my speciality. To give the best gift, in my humble opinion, it must be bought online, shipped to your door, and (as a bonus) be already wrapped; and yes, a cardboard box can be considered 'wrapping'. I'm one of those dads who on Christmas morning is just as surprised as the kids when they open their gifts. Although I will admit that about five years ago I resolved to be more personal, thoughtful, and generous in my gift giving; I failed both times.

So it is a little surprising (or maybe not...) that my daughter is the Master Gift Giver. She doesn't just give a gift, she gives a little bit of her heart in every present. Her gifts are unique, fitting to the personality they are meant for, and filled with character. Years ago I recognized she had this trait and, good parent that I am, actively encouraged her - for purely unselfish reasons of course!

I still have many of the gifts she has given me over the years.

The Christmas of 2012 was no exception. Kaybi, combined with two of her brothers, Will, and Fenton (and spouses) went in together on a wonderful gift for me. They split the cost, but Kaybi did the work (smart brothers that they are..) and it was a LOT of work. (I should mention that while she was making this present her husband was completing a yearlong tour in Afghanistan, she was working an at home job, and additionally working as a mother of two active children 6 and 3 years old.)

And here are the fruits of her labor;
Tombstone's Travels Blog book.

And some pics of the pages.

The famous (infamous?) Christmas tree.

Even though I know how this book ends, I've read through it several times....

Grandson's signature.

Some other gifts over the years;

A couple from many years ago.

If you ever visit, the blog book will be in here.

Thanks for reading!
And thanks Kaybi and Mike, Will and Debbie, and Fenton and Laurie for the great gift!