Dear Taylor,

It's been another year of us together and I can't help but think about all the times you've stood by my side, and of all the times you've put up with my obnoxiousness. I don't know how you do it, but you possess patience and an understanding that has always exceeded my expectations. Before I am hungry, you give me food options. Before I can doze off in church, you poke my shoulder. Before I am too worried about something that is bothering me, you kindly ask me what is going on. How do you do that? It is beyond me.

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

To your family, I want to thank so much for their benevolence and kindness towards my family, towards myself, towards our relationship, and for the many smoked hams that we have received from Lance, they were and are phenomenal. Sometimes I wonder how I could be so blessed! Blessed enough that your family also puts up with me! I have my quirks and you know them full well, and still I feel accepted regardless.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13

To your studies, I have never been so proud of your eagerness and your constant determination to fight every academic battle that faces you, and your persistence to push forward, taking each challenge you face and overcoming them. Even though you have worries and doubts from time to time about tests and exams, always keep your family and I close to you for reassurance of the gifts and skills that you already possess to overcome your obstacles. Click here!

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Proverbs 31:25

Christmas would not be the same without you, as it had been without you in the past. I'm glad that I could spend it with you and your family this time! Merry Christmas darling,

With my undying love,

Andre Portugal

P.S. Before I can close off this letter, there is one thing I wanted to share with you; a riddle. In highlight of all the difficulties and hardships you've experienced this year while staying on the right side of every situation, and that I have exposed within this letter, nothing goes hand in hand like a gift designed to mitigate pangs. Not all gifts are seen, but sometimes to find them, we need to read between the lines.