December 10

So today I had an unavoidable trip to the mall. The coat I had ordered Ellis online came yesterday, and it was too small. The weather is taking a turn for the very cold, and I couldn't face walking him to school in the morning just wearing his same ol' fleece, so I went into the store to exchange it. And found a coat for Marlowe, too. So, Winter, bring it on!

Ellis was all excited that Santa was there. Since there wasn't much of a line, I said he could go say "hi." But, holy moly, I was NOT buying a picture. (I think mostly E and M saw that kids were getting free candy canes. And I think they'd sit on the Grinch's lap if he were passing out free candy.) I'm beginning to think that Ellis might think Santa is a real person. I mean, we sort of joke around about Santa and Christmas and all. And we never imply that Santa brings presents. I think we think Santa is so hilarious, but maybe we better more careful about explaining that it's just a big ol' game of pretend.

The mall today wasn't crowded, but going there by myself with two wiggly boys had its difficult moments. I think it's been since April since I've been in a mall, so it's hard to remember. I have no desire to go back. I hate malls and strollers and strollers in malls. Ugh.

This evening, I finally found the box with my Christmas CDs and movies in it. We dug out The Snowman and watched it before bed. It never loses the magic. I cry every time.