So the moment of truth arrived the other day. Up until now Emma had been talking a tough game with her Mom and Dad. But as she stood there in front of old Saint Nick, the sunlight majestically illuminating his rosy-red cheeks and bushy white beard, Emma could not help but to be humbled. When asked by Santa if she had been “naughty” or “nice” this year Emma looked down and sheepishly whispered the words she knew she had to say, “nice”. Santa then retrieved a red book and pencil to add her to his list and then in astonishment, turned the book to Emma and said, “you are already in the ‘nice’ book”. And sure enough, Emma’s name was already there. Emma gave Santa a big hug and off we went.

Emma is really excited about Christmas this year. She has been watching all the Christmas specials and has thus been introduced to “Frosty the Snowman”, “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”, and “Santa Claus”. Elena and I look forward to sharing this holiday with her and reliving the wonder and joy that Christmas brings.