SLEDDING

Bi-lingual LG says she shouted "HEN-RY!" as the sled raced down the hill. When questioned, she said that's what Angelina [Ballerina] yelled... I'm pretty sure she thinks that's Anglo-slang for something like "GERONIMO!"

BLOGGING LATE AT NIGHT

SCARY!

After midnight and insomnia rules... I am in the great room, in the dark, blogging... One of the candles on our mantle springs to life. It has been over two hours since all six were extinguished.

Thank you, Lord, for insomnia tonight. This candle would have burned for 5 or 6 hours before anyone detected it.

FAKING IT

Finding just the right gift for RvH each Christmas is a challenge. She's a world-class shopper, and particular to-boot. I started with the safe route this time--a Border's gift card to satisfy her magazine addiction. Then I found the perfect scandal mag to wrap with the gift card. I considered a few other gifts, but then happened upon this magnificent fake fur throw at Home Goods.

After this discovery, the deal was done.

And, when RvH opened this over-the-top bit of luxury today she giggled and bounced appreciatively. Every girl needs a bit of silliness and indulgence.

RECEIVING IS SOMETIMES HARDER

RvH is a world-class gift giver, but a reluctant receiver. Sometimes I get it right and she delights in the gift. Most times she holds onto her gifts for days and even weeks before opening. Her true pleasure is in the giving.

Thank you and thank you, RvH. The presentation is as lovely as the gifts--as usual!

SELF-SUFFICIENCY

This is KF's ticket to freedom. She takes it everywhere she needs to reach... I spent $6.99 on it at WalMart before the little girls arrived in early October. I imagined that KF and LG would need a boost to reach the powder room sink, but feared this was too short. It's been perfect, and it's so light-weight that KF totes it easily.

First thing this a.m. she slammed herself into the powder room, emerging seconds later with this stool in-hand. Not sure where she was headed, but with this boost she can reach light switches, counter tops, window ledges.

KF owns this stool.