Christmas Prep

The time of year between Thanksgiving and Christmas is so exciting. I was a big help with decorating the house, the tree, and unwrapping gifts. 
Yes, unwrapping gifts. Especially edible ones. True to form, when all is quiet in the house something has gone wrong.
 This is a classic case of failed redirection. My Mom was wrapping some gifts and I attempted to sneak off with this premium chocolate bar. My Mom caught me and I asked if I could have it. She gave me some line of "Oh ...you wouldn't like that. It has spices in it, unless you have changed your mind and now like spicy things. That line so did not pass the sniff test, Mother dearest is always lamenting about broadening my palette and such. I agreed and swiped the candy bar with the stealth of a Wall Streeter. A few moments later I gleefully gave myself away announcing I did in fact like spicy things. Yum! My Mom didn't actually lie there was cinnamon and cayenne pepper in the chocolate bar. See...I ate pepper, that counts as a spice and a vegetable.

Honestly, I don't know what she was so worked up about. I mean it was 100% organic. Doesn't she know the latest research has shown you should stock your pantry with healthy choices and let children graze like free range chickens. What? You don't believe me...I have links to the article. This hoarding and hiding of food it could lead to dinners that are actually eaten  obesity and crumb free floors unhealthy relationships with food. Think of the years of therapy I saved by pilfering somebody else's Christmas present.
I must have been forgiven for that act or my parents realized the error of their ways. The next day we were off on a trip to Minneapolis. It's a long car ride. I was prepared for a park stop on the way. Ankle deep powder is know match for me. Why these days I can manage post holing to my waist.
The long car trip was worth it as I got to star in a music video at the Minnesota Children's Museum.
Ok..so everyone gets to star in the video, but whose counting.
I also got to meet a good friend. Clifford. It was so cool. Bones for steps and a tail for a slide.
I love reading books. I think I spent the next hour reading books.
After that it was time to stock up on non perishables at Trader Joes's. Our cart was overflowing all our favorites. I spent a lot of time looking for the monkey I was used to finding in the So Cal stores but it turns out it is Edgar the Eagle in Minneapolis. I found him and instead of the So Cal issued stickers, I earned a sucker for my efforts. Awesome! My Mom must have been so thrilled because she is always complaining about stickers being a sticky mess.

After that it should have been nap time especially since  I partied at 0300 last night however in a one room hotel room there is just so much to do and no way for parents to effectively ignore their precious child soooo Mama cut her losses and we headed to the Barnes and Noble adjacent to our hotel.

Books and toys under one roof. My favorite place for sure ..except for home of course

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a pretty great holiday. Politically, it's very correct. I mean who could possibly be offended about giving thanks except maybe a turkey or two.
Thanksgiving is a great time to relax by the fire enjoying books with loved ones.
It's also a lot of handwork preparing a feast for all. 
Judging by the above photo...Ah hemm
 I was hard at work in the kitchen, while my Mom was out playing. I think we were cursing her name and her farm to table attitude and about ready to open a can of Libby's pumpkin pie filling. The idea of getting to mash a pumpkin seemed like such a good idea at the time.

Well, it does appear my Mom wasn't the only one out having fun. Rumor has it Grandma can really drive a sled. 


Currently, I prefer non motorized winter sports. The "Silent Sports" they say.
It's hard work. I am up for a hot chocolate break.