Christmas magic

I watched tonight with a slight twinkle in my eye as my 10 year old daughter readied the living room for Santa. We do this every year. We move the fireplace screen and pick up all the pillows... remove any obstacles that may be in Santa's way. This year it was the snoring Santa and Rudolph the singing reindeer. She made daddy promise to turn off the pilot light on the gas logs so Santa didn't get burned. This year has been tough. She has had to fight for what she believes in. Starting from one month into school she came home with stories of children who did not believe in Santa trying to spread their lies to her. "Mom! They are so stupid! They say that the parents are Santa. How can that be? You're asleep too!"
Her furvor is admirable. Her loyalty is inspiring. It also means that I've done really good at my job. I have already labeled this the best Christmas we will ever have. The boys finally get it. They love Santa and presents and yet they know that it's baby Jesus' birthday. Addison is still a believer... Even if she's hanging on by her finger tips. This may be the only Christmas where these two things coincide. And so I've declared this year the best! I can't wait for tomorrow. It's as exciting for me as it is for them. I think Christmas loses its magic when you stop believing in Santa but returns when you have your own children and get to BE Santa. I'm just happy this season. Happy to have my kids. Happy to have my husband home and helping. Just happy.

No... Vember

Not sure what happened to the entire month of November. We had some fun. There was a trip to the Polar Express in Bryson City, NC. My kids were pumped. Their interpretation of the North pole was kinda lame but the singing was good and the hot chocolate was amazing. The boys met Santa and now love him. I think I also. Went to see my sister in Dalton. I think. Who knows when that was. Here's pics to prove it all despite my failing memory.

Halloween 2018

Alice in Wonderland... DISNEY VERSION

No one hugs anymore

I'm sitting alone in a pew at church. I sat alone in Sunday school. One person said hello after the class was over and then abruptly dashed off mid story as I turned to look at someone who called my name. I go to. Church with, work with, and socialize with these same people and no one hugs anymore.
I guess there's no need to ask someone how they're doing. Facebook posts kept you up to date on that. I suose with thr #metoo movement, men especially are scared to get near or touch another woman for fear of persecution. There are days I'm feeling it... I feel outgoing and I find people and I hug them and talk to them. Today isn't one of those days. And no one cares. So very caught up in our own lives that we have no time to glance in the direction of another. No time to genuinely ask how someone is and stay around for the answer.
I remember growing up the older people, especially men, were the welcomes every Sunday. It wasn't their post or their job... But they did it. They made you feel acknowledged.. And special. They might even pull out a butterscotch candy for you. Back then mother would make comments under her breathe like... Here comes the kissing man. Who knew there would be a day when I'd love to see the kissing man coming my way with a butterscotch in his hand.
I have always been a hugger. I remember meeting my college roommate and her telling me she had never met someone who hugged so much. It important to me to have physical touch... Without expectations.
I'm sure there are a lot of concerned people sitting in the sanctuary right now. I'm sure if it were pointed out many would make an effort. But without prompting. I sit here without a single hello. Church has started now.

10 years of life

Addison cried herself to sleep last night because she didn't want to turn 10. I'm sure it had to do with daddy and mommy telling her they didn't want her to grow up. Maybe she felt like she wouldn't be our little girl anymore. Whatever the reason, she was sad.
Tonight she crawled into bed and the first words out of her mouth were, "I don't want to go to bed because I don't want my birthday to end."
Maybe it was the unicorn cake. Maybe it was the 6 gifts from grandma. Maybe it was the red guitar.  Whatever the case, she's stalling as I type. Happy Birthday beautiful.