LET THE HOLIDAYS BEGIN (CONTINUE?)

We (Howard and I) had a very nice Thanksgiving - as I'm sure many of you did. All the right things -- good company of family, wonderful food, laughter, sharing of gratitude. It even included six children, 'Grand-Dudes and Grand-Neices/Nephew', ages 1-6, at the table who are at an age to contribute to the merriment.  It was a good day.

I mention laughter because Howard said to me yesterday:  "When did Derek (son/stepson) become so funny; or, has he always been funny and we just didn't notice?"

FYI, Derek is 37 years old.  We noticed the funny streak emerging a few years ago when he made a comment so off the wall that it made us both laugh harder than we had in a LONG time.  And, over the years since, at dinners, family get-togethers, etc., more and more this funny streak emerges.  Wonder why? or, has he always been this way and we just didn't notice?

Was he funny in a different way until recently? or, were we just too busy being 'serious about our parenting' -- allowing little time for laughter.

One thing you need to know about Derek, he has always been able to strike up a conversation with ANYONE.  Doesn't matter age, status, limitations, gender -- anyone.  I have always admired that about him, wondered where that skill comes from -- me? his Father? the Universe?  As a blended family of 3, Howard, Derek and I traveled and moved a lot.  Derek was routinely on planes, traveling from wherever back to visit his Father -- maybe that had something to do with his comfort level with people. We were always throwing him into situations that challenged him and he consistently stepped up.

No matter the source -- it is good to laugh and even better to see our son happy, relaxed, comfortable in his ability to walk in the world.  Waxing a bit sentimental this morning.

As you've figured out, our Thanksgiving was, indeed, a good one.  Yesterday, also good -- a full day at home; marred only by the presence of police officers on our street investigating a neighbor's possible criminal activity.  Does make things interesting, however.

Today?  Teaching in Carlsbad at 9am; then taking 'Grand-Dudes' to lunch, then Howard and I will go to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the LaJolla Playhouse.  Full day, doing the things I love.

Hope your Saturday is a good one.