Worst Kept Christmas Secrets Ever!

I’m watching an old classic on tv and Stephi is sitting next to me singing every word along with Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer and Kirby the dentist elf.  I'm so proud!

 Brittany is on her way home from college and needed a place to lay her head.  My sweet cousin in Nashville took her in for the night and spoiled her rotten before sending her back on her way.  We will see her shortly.

The Christmas tree is thawing in the garage.  Brad will bring it in for the girls to decorate  tomorrow.  Most of the presents are sitting in the corner wrapped in bright colors and ribbons.  I'm pretty surprised that Stealth Kitty has behaved pretty well so far;  I’ve only found a couple of shredded strands of shiny ribbon strewn around the house.
   
For as long as I can remember, we have wrapped presents and then get everyone all worked up and excited over the "what is it?"  part.  Once when we were little, my brother and I were so curious, he held my ankles while I reached down into a tall box to pull up wrapped gifts, peel back the tape, and take a peek.  The next year, mom bought wrapping paper that tore when you pulled the tape.  Argghhhh, she's so sneaky!

Britt & Stephi-2004

  But there will be NO SURPRISES FOR THE FAM THIS YEAR!   This year the wrapped presents are for show only since everyone pretty much bought their own gifts. 

 I needed Stephi's help to get to the right website, put in the special secret codes, and figure out seating details for the concert of her dreams.  I wished her Merry Christmas as I handed over my credit card.

2004-Josh showing us his big boy UT sweatshirt

Brad was so helpful, he put his stuff in the online shopping cart for me, complete with style, color and size.  I really wanted to do something special for him; I have been saving my mad money to replace the warped keyboard with super glue he calls a computer.  The only thing is, he’s a total computer geek and I needed his help to buy it! I did offer to choose it myself though I was pretty sure I would end up  buying him a ‘Hello Kitty’ Laptop.  I wished him Merry Christmas as I handed him my debit card.  I will wrap it and put it under the tree the night before since I don’t trust that Stealth Kitty!

A few years ago, I would have made it picture perfect complete with big surprises, but this year, I’m just in it for the joy that comes from giving and being with my family.
 

HUGS!

Sherri