MOA

Today was devoted to the Mall of America. First stop was the American Girl Doll Store for annual Christmas and birthday shopping. Girls understand the budget concept and practice their math skills each year. They also know that once we leave the store the boxes remain closed, go into a hiding place, and emerge as gifts at the appropriate times.

Next part of our day consists of unlimited rides for three hours with breaks for ice cream and lunch, and yes dessert first. We are the grandparents, remember?

After five hours at MOA, home and an hour of rest time suits all of us. Pawpaw and I will worry about where to hide all those big red boxes later.

Christmas Countdown

(From December 20)

Oh my, Christmas is right around the corner. The season starts earlier every year and then is almost a surprise when the big day finally arrives. Of course, our big celebration was long ago on Thanksgiving weekend in Minnesota, but we have a few things going on around here. Right now I can either put another log on the fire or call it a night.

Christmas Apron

One of my friends gifted me with this apron because she knew how much granddaughters would love it, especially the twinkling lights.  They did!

Merry Christmas Going

(From December 31)

And going, going, gone! By the second day after Christmas, no trace of Christmas remained inside our home, but a few tokens of the winter season will stay until red and white emerges again for a Valentine theme. I favor leaving up our outdoor lights year round, but I have never won that battle. 

After our triple play celebration in November, most of December is anticlimactic.  I determinedly stay busier than necessary with community and social activities and in the kitchen.  Absent family members contribute to the pensive mood.  Happily, my sisters and their husbands came Christmas day and celebrated with us. 

Next on the calendar will be the birthdays of both granddaughters and another trip to their cold state.  So much fun doing kid things again!  Parties, school trips, movies, lessons, hairdos, cafeteria lunches, books and more books--great way for us to start the new year!

Merry Christmas Coming

The tree shoppers and their purchase!



Up and in the stand!



Always need plenty of lights!



After all the ornaments, the finishing touch!


True to our tradition of Thanksgiving weekend, the Christmas tree goes up on Friday.  This year our helpers are proficient decorators and completed the joyful job in record time.