Shanna was in the grocery store. She wanted to know why the Christmas trees were being put up with the Halloween stuff. I told her to talk to an employee and not me because I am not responsible.

But of course I’m already thinking about Christmas a lot. Thanksgiving is handled. We are going to Dad’s. Christmas we are staying home.

This year the only presents under our tree on Christmas morning will be to and from people who are in the room. I’m not having another over whelming Christmas with stuff from Noah’s parents. I am deeply grateful for the stuff they send. I even send freakin thank-you letters.

But I don’t know these people and they don’t need to dominate my day on Christmas.

We will get up and make cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning instead of pre-making them and making a bunch. That was my mom’s thing. It doesn’t need to be my thing. I can have part of the tradition with a lot less work.

I’m looking forward to the lights. I’m already having an interesting time adjusting to the dark. (My kids are sleeping way more! It’s awesome.)

I just don’t care about Halloween this year. Usually I do. This year I just… don’t.

Because my husband likes lists:

I of course want a stocking and Santa present. Soap, underwear, socks, food, and maybe something shiny like a lip gloss? You know those colorful stacking blocks I was looking at? Great Santa present. (Look around for best price. They vary by more than $70 depending on website.)

A book (something to read)

I shoved a jammie shirt in your underwear drawer. You could pick out a pair of bloomers to go with them and I would be happy. (something to wear)

A compost bucket. Shiny and metal and with a lid to keep in the nasty smell. Please. 🙂 (something you need)

Err… something from my gift list? It would be nice to have one more present. 🙂 (something you want)

Noah, I appreciate that you try so hard. I see it.