My two babies are coming home.  Alexandra will be in around 1a.m., and Wes should arrive at 2 or 3 a.m. The house is ready, and so are Randy and I. We even took our dog for a bath this afternoon so he would smell nice for them! So here I am, watching the Hanukkah candles burn low, just relaxing and waiting for the babies to walk in the door.

I have wrapped all the gifts, and Santa’s gifts are ready to be put under the tree. I think my children would be unhappy if Santa did not come on Christmas Eve and leave them gifts. Actually, it would be me (Santa) that would be unhappy! I love the magic of Christmastime. Our tradition is a party on Christmas Eve which includes family and friends, Christians, Jews, and “whatevers”. I also have Hanukkah decorations and ornaments, and I’m open to any and all celebrations.

This year, the only gifts under the Christmas Eve tree will be for the little ones, my best friend Lyn’s grandchildren. With the economy so hard on many people I have requested no gifts, only donations to families in need this year. I have adopted a family of five from the Genesis Women’s Shelter. Of course, my daughter and I have decided to bake and give treats as gifts this year. It would be too much not give something to everyone who is at the party. In years past I have bought each and every person a gift, and enjoyed the buying, the wrapping, the bows and ribbons, and especially the opening. I LOVE to give gifts. It is my “thing” in life! It has been difficult resisting this year, but giving goodies will be almost as fun. I do plan to make some special recipes this year (I can’t spoil it here, guests might be reading this, and the surprise is part of the joy of giving.)

I was unhappy with my “blue tree” this year, so I sort of redecorated it today. Now I am pleased with it. As I said, Christmas is my thing, and I take my decorating very seriously. It has to be magical.

I’d love to hear from from each and every one of you about your holidays this year. Joy to all!