The Holidays

are not what they used to be. 

(And we are discussing the holidays now just for proof they happened.) 

I would love to dress Emily up in a Halloween costume that might take some thought or a bit of effort.  She likes to be more nonchalant.  She prefers to just casually throw something together but still be awesome.  We have differing opinions on this outcome.   Last year she did not have school on Halloween but this year she arrived without a costume.  Her friends found that outrageously unacceptable and transformed her in the ladies room to this gem of a schoolgirl.  My contribution was in giving her those glasses in Seminary that morning.

For the ward party she was Dirty girl which may or may not be considered dressing up.

To a friend's party she was a doll.  That may be too much dress up for one Halloween.

And Thanksgiving.  An American holiday.  Not acknowledged on the fourth Thursday of November anywhere but the USA.  (One of the things I have realized living out of the country is how we Americans think our way is the only way.  When people complain about Christmas shopping, singing, decorating, etc. starting anytime before Thanksgiving, just remember the fourth Thursday of November is just another day everywhere else in the world. You sound odd mentioning your unwavering convictions over your preference.)

Lonny worked a full day and then we dined with friends at the Marriott for Thanksgiving dinner.  No leftovers and no dirty dishes.  My parents dined with our children and grandchildren.

Emily had gone to the beach for the weekend with friends so no stuffing for her.

She was the stuffing.

While I was in North America Lonny's coworkers reminded him he was another year older. 

 His birthday often gets overlooked, because honestly no one wants another dessert by the 19th of December and no one needs another reason to throw a party unless you are here.  

And finally the Christmas Tree room where the natural light from the summer sun can shine brightly on all the snow indoors.