Making Christmas Memories

We had two experiences yesterday that aided us in "getting in the Christmas spirit."

First, we spent an hour listening to 16 pianists give a recital. Michael was among them, and, to quote his father, he "killed it" by playing his 3 numbers flawlessly. (I prayed through it and breathed a sigh of relief when he was successful.) We heard "Jingle Bells" about 5 times, and several other holiday tunes, including "The Hallelujah Chorus." Here's our artist with his teacher, Mr. David (he does have a last name, but this is what we call him around the house), after all was said and done. This is about as dressed up as I can get Michael these days. This was the second recital Michael has participated in, and I noted he was much more confident this time. When I asked him why this time was easier, he said that he knew what to expect, and he knew he knew the songs cold.

The second way we made a memory yesterday was by going to Lowe's. In the seasonal section, which was much picked over due to signs reading "25% OFF!", this adorable 4 1/2' tree (prelit, even!) was available for $30. Bob had taken all the lights that were set aside for our indoor tree and decorated the bushes in our yard with them, and this, and the late date, were our rationale for opting not to put up said decoration this year. That was a no go with the boy, so when we found this tree, we figured that it would get Michael what he wanted--the glow of the tree's lights to bask in while he's on his way to dreamland each night--and us what we wanted--no full-blown tree to put up this year. In the picture, Michael's trying to pretend he's as tall as the tree, when he's certainly NOT! Thirteen...what an age!

So, those are the Christmas memories we made this weekend, and it's a challenge to be in the spirit when the thermometer reads 70+ degrees. Not that I'm complaining, mind you! Save some snow for us up north, though, please! We want to experience a white Christmas for a few days.

The Christmas cards are in the mail, the last of the presents I'm responsible for are bought, and I even made cookie dough for cream cheese spritz cookies last night. I'm really gettin' there, dearies, and I hope you are too!