As a new resident to Hermiston, I was sitting at our aunt’s house out on East Loop Road, feeling a little sorry for myself. Our new home isn’t ready to move in to, I’m sure we are driving Aunt Melinda and Uncle Ron crazy, funds short for Christmas gifts, accident on 395 took a life, and the defroster isn’t working in the Jeep!

A knock on the door took me out of my haze and when I opened it there stood the most lovely child, who I later learned is named Carly. She handed me a box of Christmas cookies and said, “I just wanted to tell you how much I like your Christmas lights!”

Speechless is an understatement! When I composed myself and learned her name, she mentioned her parents and grandparents were out in the truck. Thanks to them for allowing that little angel into our lives.

It’s easy to forget the Christmas spirit is these tough economic times. Merry Christmas, Carly, and thanks for reminding me what’s really important.Hermiston, you are lucky indeed to have children like Carly in your community and we are so happy to be a part of it.

Ilene Browna and the Buwalda Family Hermiston