Keith and Kim

Bri and I went and had a nice visit with Keith/Kim and the kids. They got a new puppy named Lucy. Cameron is really into skateboarding and Celia loves teenage pursuits like talking on her new cellphone

Christmas madness

It is very nice to be shopped, wrapped, mailed, and done by the first of Dec and not have to partake of the holiday madness. The fighting over tickle me elmo and the police being called over tv's at Meijer are something I don't have to worry about anymore. Christmas is much more relaxed and enjoyable now. I'm glad I am a do ahead person

Christmas rush

It feels good to be out of the christmas ratrace, did most of my shopping in Sept and all is wrapped and mailed so no stores or craziness for me. I really dislike crowds and crowded stores are the worst. I can definetly see me becoming more enamored of internet shopping so easy!

Adopting a family

Every Christmas the ER adopts a needy family for the holidays. This year we adopted a family of 4 kids and mom. The dad died of cancer. I am always amazed at how little they ask for and I really enjoy buying for them. The 16 year old son asked for burger king and movie gift cards but fortunately they have to list their clothing sizes. I was able to get him a lot of clothes and of course shopping for 2 litle girls was a blast. The 17 year old girl was a little tougher but jewelry and gift cards will let her pick out some things. I'm also amazed at how you have to push people to give in wealthy Oakland county. A lot of the staff do not want to be bothered. I wish more people would get their kids less and involve them in giving. I don't know how much my kids remember the process but they helped me shop every year. Anyway it is one of the best parts for me of all the hoopla