'Tis The Season

People throughout the world have their different ways of preparing for Christmas. Some light candles. Some sing songs. Some eat candies. Some give gifts. Some hang wreaths and lights. Many do all the above and more.

In Sutton, they attend the Parade of Lights. It is the official commencement of the Christmas season in our community. This year the kids enjoyed a scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, bounce houses, hot chocolate, an airplane train, nachos, and a lighted parade.

Mason was pumped to ask Santa for a dirt bike and remote control boat. He then exited Santa's lap and immediately told the next kid in line, "It isn't the real Santa, it is only Mr. McElfresh and Mrs. Stone the bus driver." Ugh that kid! You can't fool him.

Tuck wasn't so sure about any of it and Jentry disappeared with her girlfriends shortly after the notorious kids pic with the big guy.

Another sign that Christmas is near is the arrival of David the Elf. Direct from the North Pole. He was in the kitchen when we returned home from Thanksgiving in Orleans and Mason took the bait...hook, line and sinker. He abruptly began asking Nathan and me, "Is there anything I can do to help you?" Wink wink! Oh Mason, I'm not sure any amount of spotless behavior could make up for a year of your shenanigans, but I have to give him credit for trying.

This year, I finally have a bit of elf assistance from one of Santa's older "Secret Helpers" and let me tell you it has put the Spirit back in this Mama's Christmas! Life changing for sure. Plus, the Secret Helper is much more creative. Win win!