Dear Colleagues,  

As I sat down to write, “Christmas Day” on the calendar next to me had my mind whirling with emotion. No visions of sugar plums, instead memories of Christmases past danced in my head. I was taken back to the holidays that stood the test of time in my mind and smiling at the excitement and innocence that filled the season as a child. If I close my eyes, I can still see the elaborate tree and decorations that my mom prided herself on creating every year. Surprisingly, the scent of holiday baking that filled our home from Thanksgiving to Christmas still lives as well.  

As a child, this time of year is magical. The lights, the tree, the music, the giving spirit of strangers, Santa… Do you have a Christmas from your childhood that stands out in your mind? I do. It was the first year I didn’t really believe in Santa anymore. After opening my gifts, I knew there was no way my mom could afford everything under the tree so I convinced myself Santa was real. I found out years later that my mom had worked overtime to make that Christmas memorable.  

It is true what they say, “Christmas is magical through the eyes of a child.” Growing up I thought the magic came from Santa, but becoming a parent changed that. Now, I know the magic came from a mom who made it her mission to make the holiday special. And it always was.  

Now that I am a mom, I appreciate the love and time my mom put into ensuring each Christmas was magical and better than the year before. I appreciate the traditions that I once balked at. I appreciate the family gatherings that used to bore me to tears. I appreciate the intricately wrapped presents that I know took hours to complete. I appreciate her staying up all night spending hours putting together the gifts that always come with crummy instructions. I appreciate the Christmas lunch that somehow appeared on the table though she was doing all the above. Yes, now that I am a mom, I look at the holiday season differently.  

Now, having two boys of my own I can only hope that I can emulate the magic my mom created for me all those years ago. I’ll do it by focusing on the real reason for the season…love. Toys, holiday food, and a fancy tree make the holiday fun, but love truly makes the holiday magical. I can only hope my boys have fond memories of holidays past when they are grown because of the love I pour into the holiday and year around.

Though adults enjoy gifts (I love a good designer bag or sunglasses), if you are like me, you tend to appreciate the gifts money can’t buy. Not just at Christmas, but year around. The holiday season spurs me to reflect on the blessings of the year, and those I am most grateful for can’t be bought in a store.  

For me, 2022 brought many gifts both personally and professionally. The birth of my second “surprise” son and turning 40 has been a simple reminder of the gift of life. Assuming the role of President of this meaningful organization has been the highlight of my professional career and yet another reminder of the gift of our profession and ability to serve others. The last six months representing you and our profession as President has been the greatest gift of my career. Through leading, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined, and I will use this unexpected blessing to continue to advocate for you and our profession long after my presidency has ended. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve you.  

Receiving and experiencing so many priceless gifts this year has me doubting there could be anything wrapped under the tree that means more. I went to bed Christmas night knowing I have been blessed with so much.  

Whatever you are wishing for and celebrating this Christmas and Holiday Season, I hope it finds its way to you. Whether wrapped under the tree or sent in other ways, I wish for you all the magic that captivated you as a child.  

Happy Holidays to you and yours,  

Lauren Miller, MPAS, PA-C

 President, SDPA Board of Directors