::Thinking of Cody at Christmas::

My son’s presence won’t be felt
Around my house this year
He won’t be watching for Santa
Or listening for reindeer

Because my boy is now an Elder
Still the youngest of the clan
But he’s doing something different,
Turning from boy to man

His presents are white shirts, some snacks
Pens and stuff. . . no fun
Yes, this year it will be different
Cause I’ve given Christ my son

I’ve spent more time on my knees
Felt strength coming from His words
I’ve read the scriptures more frequently
And my testimony stirred

As his mother I pray more often
My tears are quick to run
Heaven seems much closer because
This year I’ve given Christ my son

I wonder how those Lamanite mothers
Gave their sons to war
Or how the pioneers chose Zion
Their sacrifice was so much more

My loss will be His presence
But I miss my boy’s smile a ton
For two years I will pray for him
I’ve given Christ my son

I recall his face when he was young.
I memorized his eyes, their shine.
I always hungered for the part of him
That makes his soul divine

The stories and lessons he always heard
His choice and mine are one
I put my trust in God's hand this year
I’ve given Him my son

Past gifts have lost their glitter
I think I finally understand.
Christ's birth should be celebrated
By giving Him a hand

It's because I know Christ lives and reigns
That I'm not coming all undone
My gift has taken years to make
This year I’ve given Christ my son

Every year at Christmas time my family writes a "gift" for Heavenly Father.  Some also include their testimony.  This gift is the first one opened on Christmas morning.  I'm so grateful for my son and the example that he has always been to everyone.  He never waivers from his testimony.  my family has faced many trials throughout the past few years.  Cody never lets these trials get him down.  He always picks himself up and moves forward.  He's very sensitive to others who face trials and is always there to help those in need.  He finds joy in providing service to others.  Cody is my only son and I can't express my love for him and how honored I am to be his mother.  I'm grateful for those who have and will care about him. 
~Tammy Jones~