It’s almost over and the spirit is fading.

I’ll turn on some Christmas music, trying to find something I haven’t listened to twenty-five times this season. Sing along praying I didn’t miss anyone in my last minute shopping. Double and triple check the list before the stores close for the last time before the big day. Probably threaten to cancel the whole thing four more times before my little guy goes to sleep for him acting up while watching Christmas specials.

We will sit down and read a good Christmas story, something with a positive, happy message. I’ll tell my boy, “All I want for Christmas is a good kid.” He’ll roll his eyes and ask what else. I’ll get a huge hug as he skirts off to bed with sugar plum fairies dancing in his head.

I’ll spend the night setting up for Santa. Wrapping last minute packages and trying not to curse over a broken nail or two. Even with the preparation of extra batteries, I’m sure I’ll run out. Extra tape, probably not enough. I’ll fill the stockings with all the little goodies and fruit, and try to remember those times when I woke up in the morning to a beautiful tree. Then laugh over every year when my mother said, “Bah Humbug”.

I’ll eat the cookies and drink the milk, careful not to leave lipstick on the glass. Adding more to my holiday eating. Fall into bed well after one and be up bright and early with the camera ready for smiles that make it all worth it.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!