Let's Start Over Santa

Dear Santa,

I think we got off on the wrong foot. I know that our first two meetings were a little uncomfortable... and it was my fault. I didn't mean to cry.

Perhaps we can give it another try?

Mommy and Deddy are taking me to see you tonight at Atlantic Station. What do ya say?

Love,

Larsson

P.S., I think one of your elves has been living in my room in a white box at the edge of my crib. I can see his green eye looking out into my crib watching me sleep at night. I'm on to you, Santa. :)

Bad Santa

The Homeless Guy on My Christmas List

About a year ago today, I headed over to Starbucks to start my morning. I ordered my usual chai tea and pulled up to the drive-thru window. As I handed over my card to pay, the associate informed me that the person in the car before me bought my beverage and wished me a "Merry Christmas." I looked up and they were already gone. I was speechless. I didn't even get to see or thank the person. Obviously, it was not a huge gesture - just a couple of dollars, but that someone was willing to spend their money on me - someone they didn't know - went a long way.

Not to be outdone.... AND because I wanted someone else to feel as good about the world as I did at that moment, I bought drinks for the next person in line. And then I did a couple more similar things... And I hoped the beneficiaries would catch the spirit and pass it on.

I was reminded of last year's experience this morning when listening to the radio, as a local radio stations has launched a "Pay It Forward" campaign. I just love this idea because rich, poor, or somewhere in between, I think the world would be a better place if more people experienced and participated in more giving.

So, this morning as I listened to the radio, I revisited my Christmas shopping list. Then I added a couple items for "Pay It Forward," and my mind drifted to think about who was missing from my list.

All of a sudden, I thought about the homeless guy that hangs out near various corners, businesses and establishments in our area. There are periods of time when I see him every day - walking down the road, sitting on the pavement, or occassionally holding a sign for food. I don't know really know anything about him, but I felt compelled to add this homeless man to our Christmas shopping list. We have certainly been blessed this year, and I would like to pay it forward to help someone else have a Merry Christmas.

Teething Bling

I found teething bling necklaces in a boutique last year when I was pregnant and have regretted not buying one then, as I have not found them since.... until now.

For moms like me who have babies that pull on your jewelry and chew on everything in sight, this is perfect and completely safe. Thought I'd share!

BTW, they have a giveaway this month as well - sign up to win!

It's a Girl

Hey Larsson, did you hear the news?

You are going to have a baby girl cousin - arriving in April.

Yea, that's pretty cool!


Congrats Aunt Danielle & Uncle Jason!

October Photo Fest - it's about time!

Sunday Segments

I haven't had much time recently to write, so here are some notes on what is going on in our world:

• We enjoyed a HUGE Thanksgiving meal as we do every year at Justin's Aunt Sandra and Uncle Joel's house. A house full of Turner's and an overflowing room full of food, including fried turkey, more casseroles than you can imagine, rolls and desserts and much more. Needless to say, you need the stretchy pants for this one.
• Then we had another Thanksgiving feast at my parents house and talked about what we were thankful for. Topping everyone's list is the newest addition to the family. Larsson has changed all of our lives for the better and given us so much for which to be thankful.
• I can't believe we are in the holiday season. We started our shopping on Black Friday and scouted out a few good deals.
• I love the Christmas holidays. When Justin and I first got married, I told him Christmas was going to "throw up" in our house every year. I bought trees of all shapes, sizes and colors, and endeavored to create a Christmas wonderland in every room. It was a lot of work but always worth the effort. Unfortunately, our decorations will be minimal this year, as we are still showing our house.... and because keeping the little man out of the decor may be more than we can handle. He is always BUSY.
• Our house is still for sale, although we have not made any headway on where we will live if it sells. But on the up side, we have been making a lot of improvements - a new roof, a fresh coat of paint on the outside, and lots of little changes on the inside. It is looking good, but there is always more to do.

We have another house showing tomorrow, so I will sign off for now and promise to be more consistent in my posting going forward.