The Stockings are hung

Yes, the stockings are hung, the kids are asleep, then awake, then back to sleep....  Trish and I could be up for quite awhile.  Last year the boys were up at 3 AM.....  I predict that sleep will be scarce this Christmas Eve.

The boys are allowed to open one present on Christmas Eve.  It's one of our traditions that, frankly, makes Christmas Eve less stressful for those of us who have to endure their whining and boredom all day.  Trish worked until 5; Connor played his video game and Sam and I went to Christmas Eve service at 3. 

The weather was frightful, I must say.  We had a cold rain all day and into the evening.  We needed the rain, but I'm dreaming of last Christmas when we had a delightful WHITE Christmas!  Those who know me know how I do love snow and how I loved last winter when we had a most unusually snowy winter. 

La Nina has cursed me this year, I'm afraid.  Last week we had an 85 degree day that smashed records.  I was NOT happy!  At least it's cold for Christmas, although the forecast calls for at least one 70-something day as the year draws to a close.

I think Santa is going to make a couple of little boys  (not so little) happy tomorrow.  Actually, Connor has the Santa thing figured out, while Sam does, too......kinda....   He desperately wants to believe.  So, I told him that he can definitely believe.  I said that I will always believe since Santa is the spirit of Christmas, of giving.  

So, believing.... in the meaning of Christmas and the spirit of Christmas is what it's all about.

Happy Birthday Jesus, and Merry Christmas Eve to all my friends and family!

This Jolly Old Elf has miles to go before she sleeps.....