With optimistc hopes, we begin the Days of Christmas

When we first found out that we would be moving right smack-dab in the middle of the Christmas season, I sat the kids and explained to them that our Christmas wasn't going to be what it usually is.

"No presents?"  Porter had tears in his eyes.

"You still get gifts.  We just won't be able to do all of the fun Christmas stuff that we usually do."  I prepared myself for the oncoming flood of sadness.

Instead I got a round of shrugs.

What?  Do the traditions that I have so painstakingly planned, carried out, and held onto every year been for naught?  Don't my children understand that tapestry of memories I am weaving for them every year?  Do they not understand that this is the stuff that KEEPS FAMILIES TOGETHER?!

I was a wounded Momma Bear. 

And yes, it was all about me.

So, to prove just how important my little annual Christmas merriment is to my children, I am going to *try* to do it again.

And if I've given up by the third day of December... ah well.  I tried.

Look at Porter Pot, writing his letter all by himself.  Awwww!

Apparently this was very serious business for Adi.

Photo bombed by Wyatt!

Piper took dictation from Wyatt as to what his letter should say.

And the results:

Here's what Adi's says:

Dear Santa Claus, (aka St. Nick)

I would please like a karioke/cd player/ipod player.  I've been very good and thank you very much.

p.s. have a safe flight

from,

Adison Nae Merrill

In the morning, the kiddos all had personalized replies from old Saint Nick himself.

24 more days to go!