Can you believe it? I sure can’t. You’d think I could after so much shopping, wrapping, baking, attending ‘holiday’ musical programs at the CK’s school (oh, I’ve decided to bring one of those booster seat cushions with me next year after my buns disagreed with 4 hours of sitting in that stinkin’ metal chair yesterday), and mailing of presents/cards across the continental United States of America. But no! Christmas just doesn’t seem like it will actually happen in approximately 48 hours. Huh? What’s that all about?

I’m in some sort of denial, that’s it.

Anyway, the Catholic Family and I will be attending mass on Christmas Eve after each of us opens ONE present early, and then we’ll be (at least we hope) unwrapping the multitude of presents Santa strategically leaves under our tree on the morning of Christmas Day. Because a mom needs her sleep, you know. And it takes several hours and a needle-nose pliers to open all those sweet little toys secured so nicely in boxes, too. Ok so yes, my peeps don’t want to deal with TIRED MOM as it is, so this is the best scenario for everyone involved.

So how will YOU be spending the holidays this year?

(Because it’s almost Christmas, so why not?)

Your Christmas Spirit Level: 90%

Your Christmas spirit is almost as big as Christmas itself. Christmas is definitely your thing. You celebrate Christmas with enthusiasm. You love every minute of the holidays. Your Christmas spirit is inspiring to everyone who runs into you during the holidays. You make everyone’s day just a little bit brighter. And that’s what the holidays are all about!

From: System Administrator (me)
To: All Staffers
Subject: Thank You & Server Maintenance

Good Morning,

First I just want to say “Thank you!” ever so much for the beautiful flowers and card. At first I was a little wary after opening the envelope and seeing picture of a dog next to a fire hydrant, but then I was pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful words left inside. Every single one of you is a true blessing to me.

Next, as you probably guessed by the subject line of this message, server maintenance is in order. The day just wouldn’t be complete without a server reboot. Therefore, I will be applying updates to the server and restarting it @10:30 a.m. An announcement will be made over the intercom, so please be prepared to save your work to avoid losing data.

Thanks for your patience and cooperation.

Peace and joy to all!

And no, I’m not getting teary-eyed. It’s the dratted flu-bug the CK’s brought home. Hubs and I are fighting it tooth and nail, or should I say nasal spray and Zicam? Meanwhile, server calls.

Von Maur at the Westroads Mall in Omaha, Nebraska will reopen tomorrow. After much cleanup of the memorials and at least one ceremony that I know of outside of the department store, business will return as usual. I don’t know about you, but this has been a hard tragedy to swallow… especially one so close to the holidays.

Be well everyone. Hug your loved ones and tell them that you love them every single day. It matters more than you know.