and a good day was had by .... almost all

Everyone except Autumn.

She brought the girls and Dejah over around 11:30. I had already started the chili, stockings were stuffed, everything was wrapped and ready.

I had bought the girls the misc stuff (previous post) but their big things were digital cameras. They all three got one. Ashley, Hannah and Autumn. I told Ash I expect at least one picture a week. I may have to ask Larry to split some internet access for her in her room.

We ate some homemade chili, Dejah & I made a chocolate cake, and poor Autumn spent the day in my bed. Her stomach was in turmoil, and giving her bouts from top to bottom :(

We took her home to bed, then I took all three girls to the movies. We saw Narnia, which freaking rocked. Hannah was bitching about seeing it (how did I miss these books for them when I loved them myself?) since she didn't know what it was about. She was on the edge of her seat the whole time, and loved it afterwards. We all did.

I dropped them all off at home, checked on Autumn, who was in the same place we left her, on the couch. I hope she has food poisoning instead of some nasty virus that will stick around for a while.

Ash bought me some TV trays, really nice ones. I love them because I never eat at the table. She bought them with her own money, and I know that had to make her feel good.

Hannah brought me 600 tc egyptian cotton sheets. I have a feeling Larry had a hand in that. I sent Larry a text message telling him Merry Christmas, and thanks for helping Hannah with the sheets.

Autumn brought a gift card, to Target, which I love and had to promise not to use it for laundry detergent.

Corie gave me the softest, prettiest pink ballet sweater. She also stuck some body souffle from Sephora in the box. It's "The Ice Cream Man" - Philosophy "A good man is sweet". She thought it was funny, and ironic.

Monica brought me a pink tool box. Yes, the box is pink, and all the tools in it are pink. I freaking love it.

It's not about the gifts, unless you are someone like me who loves to give them, then it is about the gift. It's my love language (or so I have been told).

I hope your day was wonderful, whatever wonderful means to you.

And bless the souls of those no longer with us. Family, friends, soldiers, and lovers.