Today was full of holiday cheer. It was ONE’s last day of school before Christmas break, and he wore pajamas to school. They asked us to do this for the Christmas program, just so we’re clear. On our way, we stopped at the U.S. Post Office to mail a letter to Santa. He knows Santa isn’t real, but we like to pretend that he is.

Oh yes … this is happening.

We were so proud of him! He did great, and seeing all those kids sing their hearts out kind of made me emotional. Children really do bring JOY to this world.

Later, ONE said, “Mommy, I was so nervous at the Christmas Program, but then I saw you and Daddy and I didn’t feel nervous anymore!” So finally, for the first time in awhile, I know that I did my job today. 

I also sat cross-legged on the classroom floor with a bunch of 4-year-olds and listened to another parent read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” I was the only adult who did this and I felt silly, but ONE wanted to hold my hand and have me right by his side. He invited me to play Legos with him and his friends. He wanted me to experience his world, and I did, on my knees, at eye-level with all of them. And I enjoyed it immensely, because how much longer will I have this magical time of his childhood? These years are excruciating and precious and possibly killing me slowly all at once. But mostly they are precious. He was so proud of me. And I am proud of him.

I did not eat a cupcake at the party. 

So I guess I’m proud of me too.