With the stores putting out Christmas decor as early as late October, it's been a conscious effort of mine to keep the kids unaware of it as long as possible. But, with the Thanksgiving parade ushering in the season with Santa, it becomes time to give in and get excited for the big guy in Red. There are three traditions that we have kept us the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend: letters to Santa, ( which Keeley wrote herself for the first time this year), the Bethel Tree Lighting, and the appearance of "Barney," our Elf on the Shelf.
I was touched by Keeley's letter for both it's timeless 5 year old handwriting and backward letters, and also by the simplicity of her requests. I try to tell the kids that Santa only allows children each 2 wishes so that he can help the whole world.
Winter Festival in Bethel with the Ferrier girls, Lily and Emmie, in Putnam Plaza. As usual, we didn't make it until the lighting at 7 because we turn into pumpkins at 6:30, but we enjoyed the annual Boy Scout soup and time with old friends. Now Newtown residents, Bethel will always remain my first hometown and hold a place in my heart, as it was there I found myself as a new Mom.
