MN160
Ok, I am trying to type this at the same time as blubbing so apologies if I make no sense!
Last year was awful for me and I came into 2012 hoping it would be so much better. In some ways it did improve, my health was better, I managed to get a job, and I was looking forward to a good year. However, it wasn't to be. My darling dad was diagnosed with cancer, he has been through a round of treatment and we are waiting now for his appointment in January after a scan to see if it has helped. My mum has also had 2 major ops and is becoming more housebound as the weeks go on. We have had to move 250 miles away from home for work, and life has been one hard slog. I have spent almost everyday of the last 6 months worrying that I will lose my dad soon.
Every year I read the MN Xmas Appeal threads and have never been nominated before. I have taken part in them over the years and really enjoyed donating. I read the threads and am so glad that I am not nominated and that others who are more in need receive lovely gifts and it sends happiness to a family that deserve it. No matter what is going on in my life and what the struggles are I have a roof over my head and food in the fridge and for that I am genuinely grateful. A lot of people struggle daily to have a home and to be able to feed their family and I know that despite having my own struggles, these about these people really do put things into perspective.
This year I was nominated and really couldn't believe it. I send a heartfelt thanks to whoever it was that nominated me, I have no idea who it is or why I have been nominated, I keep trying to think back over the year and wonder who it could be as I don't post a lot about my life on here, but thank you so, so much, I was amazed to be nominated. 
To my Secret Santa, today I have received the most amazing, generous gift from you. It actually made me cry when I received it and opened it. I cannot believe the generosity that you have shown to me and I cannot thank you enough. I will use it wisely and make sure I have lovely treats for myself. I am really excited that I can get something just for me, you have no idea how much this means to me and what a difference it will make! It made me feel all warm and fuzzy and I will be smiling for the rest of the day (something that doesn't happen a lot at the moment). Your thought and kindness has really made my day, and I am seriously overwhelmed at how generous you have been. It is amazing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also laughed at the Pom Bear reference in the card and name on the envelope! My DP stood looking confused at me while I was crying and laughing at the same time. I have explained the MN Xmas appeal and that this gift was off a lovely MNer and he has also asked me to pass on his heartfelt thanks at the lovely gesture you have made.
This really is MN at it's best and reminds me what a lovely place it is to be.