Holiday Hoopla!

These days it feels like I'm jumping through hoops. Here are my thoughts in a few random sentences ---

1. Wrapping presents in code is fun. Sean can't stand the temptation of gifts with his name on them so this year each child gets all his/her gifts wrapped in the same paper; the kicker is that they don't know who has what paper. They love it. Sweet.

2. Working retail, especially toys, is pure madness this time of year.

3. Peppermint brownies, sugar cookies, butterscotch cornflake candy, chex mix muddy buddies, check! Still on agenda - fudge attempt #2 (REALLY need to get that candy thermometer!) and choc. chip cookies.

4. Cannot commit to doing gingerbread houses this year. They are just as happy with a handful of candy. And I hate the fact that they destroy eat them within minutes of decorating them. I am a Grinch when it comes to this.

5. Some day I will get to sleep in, right?

6. NO Elf-on-the-shelf for us. I think it's creepy. We've had magical elves for YEARS (copied form my sister-in-law).....they are always watching. And they leave a little something in the gift bags outside their bedrooms on the nights of the 21, 22, and 23 if the kids have been good. I thought they were too old for elf checks, but much to my chagrin to my surprise they were asking about the elves last week. Creative mini-gifts is hard enough work without having to go overachiever with a creepy doll for a month.

7. Watching loads of Christmas shows and movies when the opportunity arises. I hope we remembered to DVR The Polar Express.

8. Looking forward to seeing Saving Mr. Banks over the Christmas break. Any other must-see movies out there?

Merry Christmas! May this holiday hustle and bustle slow to a gentle pace and allow us all to savor the blessings in our lives.