Decking the Tree

“Remember, if Christmas isn't found in your heart, you won't find it under a tree.” ― Charlotte Carpenter

Pam decorating her tree

I haven't had a lot of Christmases with my nephew.  I remember when he was little, and all his siblings were small.  Every once in awhile, we would make it down to San Diego, California and bringing gifts for April's children. 

April is passed now, and Daniel lives in Oregon.  My only family member in this state.  I am glad he has been bringing me out of the house and over to his place.  It makes my time alone feel less lonely.

My nephew Daniel's girlfriend is decorating their tree in Portland, Oregon.  This is the first time I've seen LED lights on a Christmas tree.  They are supposed to be safer and more energy-efficient.

Santa Claus 2019

“Hey, great idea: if you have kids, give your partner reading vouchers next Christmas. Each voucher entitles the bearer to two hours' reading time *while the kids are awake*. It might look like a cheapskate present, but parents will appreciate that it costs more in real terms than a Lamborghini.” ― Nick Hornby, The Polysyllabic Spree

Since my bearded man is away, I went to see this bearded man.

My nephew Daniel took me to Woodburn, Oregon to take a photo with Santa Claus.  It was super cold outside this tiny kiosk and I think I was the only adult guest to sit with Santa for pictures fo the day.  

Trevor is still in Hawaii, so I decided a professional photo with Santa would cheer him up.  It came out better than expected.  I also went and made copies to send to my mom.

Christopher's Christmas Jacket

“I manage a toast to the Christmas tree
and one to the sweet absurdity
in the miracle of the verb to be.
Lucky you, lucky me.”
― Miller Williams

While in Oregon, I ordered some gifts for my children in California.  My son, Christopher, gave me the wrong size.  So, when he opened his gift for Christmas 2018, his jacket was too small.  My sister, Jeri, exchanged the jacket to one that fit him better.  

Here is my handsome son with his jacket in January of 2019, when it finally got to him.  He looks cozy.  California winters are not nearly as freezing as Oregon winters.  

I'd rather be in Hawaii for a tropical Christmas under a palm tree.