So, an epilogue to my input above:
Just dropped her off with her mother (mom gets the second 1/2 of the holiday break this year). We went down into Denver to see the lights on the City & County building after dinner before heading to mom's. A few shenanigans there, but overall just a nice little bow on the whole Christmas experience with her. On the drive from Denver, in an attempt to just make/continue light conversation, I asked her what her favorite part of the whole Christmas season was. I expected to hear "going to the Nutcracker", or "The presents", or "the time off school", or the candy, the food, or any of the other normal things one would expect from a 9 yr old. I was expecting that.
A quiet little voice from the back seat answered, "Just being with you Dads".
When I got her out of the car, she ran around and wrapped her arms around me. This is not normal for her. She's a big hugger, but she never initiates. She always waits to hear, "Gimme a hug." before letting loose. I picked her up, and she had tears running from her little eyes. She didn't want it to end.
I walked in the door about 30 minutes ago. My house has never felt this empty. She's been at her mom's for just over a half hour, and I miss her like she's been gone a year.
I am sitting her bawling my eyes out right now. Partly because I miss her, but mostly because I am so very thankful that I was able to help create something this magical and this meaningful for her.
Best. Christmas. Ever. Nothing else can even come close.
....and to all, a good night.