My secret santa sent me a message when my gift was shipped, telling me a story about why he sent what he sent.

Honestly, it was probably the most thoughtful gift ever, just because of the meaning behind it.

I don't know how much of the story he would like told in public, but he is recently out of high school (I am almost, if not old enough to be his mom - barely lol) and grew up in a similar financial situation as I did.

As an adult, with five kids (my two stepsons, two daughters and I am my sister's legal guardian) we are living nearly paycheck to paycheck. I am lucky enough to be in a better financial situation than my mother was, but it is still a struggle sometimes and I sacrifice a lot so I can stay home with my kids and still give them an awesome life.

That someone recently out of high school and preparing to further his education, I thought this was one of the most heartfelt gifts ever, especially with the story behind it. When you grow up with a lower income level, treats are a rare occasion. Especially a treat "out" at a restaurant. Like me, My Santa never really had that growing up, so that was his gift to me.

It couldn't have arrived at a better time for us - my mother died a year ago right before Christmas, and like I said above - I am now raising my teenaged sister. I am stressed about Christmas, and gifts and dealing with my sister and we are all obviously still mourning my mom.

I had a really rough day today, and when I checked the mail on my way to pick up my kids layaway and got this gift card, I cried. Needless to say, we made a pitstop at Applebees on the way home and treated us all to dessert.

I know my Santa was worried that his gift wasn't good enough, but really, it was probably the best giftcard ever, and the best gift I could have gotten. :)

Thanks, Santa!