Zipping By

So here we are, reinserting ourselves into December after so many play practices and preparation - and lo!  December is zipping by.  To emphasize this much, our elf was found this morning on a zip line stretched across the great room in front of the tree.  He seems to be having a good time.

Truth be told, it has been fun.  Busy, but fun.  We now have about ten or eleven days to really enjoy the Christmas season, although today isn't so much one of them.  Today was in fact more about getting some recovery time from all the play practices and preparation.  

Madison was off to school after the December traditions of the morning.  Mommy and Daddy did some wrapping, and also did some Christmas cards.  Tomorrow, we'll finish up in that area, and we'll probably post her annual picture with Santa, which came out quite nice.  

Tonight, we had our last ballet practice of the year, which is kind of bittersweet in a way.  We enjoy the time off, but there is always this quiet loneliness around a college campus around Christmas season.  The place is deserted as everyone says their goodbyes to go in various directions.  Some parents recognized Daddy for his part in the play yesterday - that's the thing about being on stage in front of thousands.  You can't hide downstairs all the time, and suddenly folks are realizing who you are. 

Madison enjoyed ballet, and another candy cane.  She also enjoyed a "Peanuts Christmas" when we got home.  We had dinner, and read a few Christmas books as well, including a funny one about how Mater (from "Cars") saved Christmas, and Santa Car.

We put out some new lights tonight, some reindeer that decorate our garden in front of the house.  With the trees we have lit up as well, and the Christmas trees visible in the windows, it looks quite nice.  Also, Mommy put up the Christmas wreaths, which always look festive and seasonal.  Our house looks great!

The rain poured down tonight, a surprise really.  We didn't know the forecast, and we looked at each other wondering what that noise was outside?  Oh yes, it was rain.  We've been pretty dry lately, but there's supposedly some moisture in the forecast coming up.  We'll see how it all plays out, because we're about to enter winter, and all that comes with it.

We've got plenty to do inside should we be grounded.  Already, Madison has been getting small gifts each day.  Some of them are booklets on how to fold origami shapes.  Others are stencils of snowflakes, and plenty of bookmarks too.  Hopefully we'll be able to show off some origami soon - we'll certainly have more time as the week goes on.

Before bed tonight, the elf moved.  Jingle is up to something - but I suppose we'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out!  Until then, here he is, apparently saying... "Goodnight!"