The Start of Hanukkah

Wednesday night was the start of Hanukkah, and a very BIG deal in our house. Nate woke up wanting to start the present opening first thing in the morning. It's a little difficult to explain that the holiday starts at sundown, so it's easier to say, "When Mommy and Daddy get home from work!" At least that's when Hanukkah started in my house growing up. My sister and I would wait at the front window watching for my Dad's car to pull around the corner. Dad coming home = present time! It turns out that some things never change. The moment I opened the garage door on Wednesday night, there were two little faces waiting for me to pull my car in. My windows were up, so I couldn't hear their little shouts of excitement, but I could feel the anticipation while watching them jump for joy.

Jack has been asking for a cleaning cart for weeks. He found one in a magazine, and walked around showing every visitor who would listen to his wish list. For days leading up to Hanukkah he would question me, "Do I get my cleaning cart?" Nathan had a list too. Nothing too major this year, he wanted Zoobs, a science kit, some craft supplies, an electric keyboard, and my favorite, a handheld metal detector. (Which I'm sorry to say, he's not getting.)  The thought of him walking around the house with tiny beeps in search of gold, is just a little too much.

I'm happy to report that Jack got his cleaning cart on the first night, and I've never seen a happier 2 year old. He was absolutely beside himself with joy. He had a laugh that could be described as something in between evil, and giddy. I think he even kissed the box when he opened it.

Nathan was excited that he got his Zoobs, but the real showstopping gift came from G-ma and G-pa from the "Hills" (That's what Nate calls them.) Doug's mom and dad are from the the "Woods". Anyway, my parents got him a recording studio/keyboard. I have to admit it is probably one of the coolest toys I've ever seen. In fact I caught Doug using it shortly after Nate took a break. Nate can record songs, mix music, use a turntable to add sound effects, and literally pretend he's the next D.J. AM. Of course, Doug reminded me that DJ AM died of a heroine overdose, so I need to work on finding a new role model. Nate does however believe he might be a top selling hip hop artist. I have to say, he does have some impressive moves. He just needs to work on his lyrics. They usually start with something like "Mommy says this...., or Jack loves to clean".

There are six more nights left, and frankly I can't remember what I wrapped, so every night is a surprise for me too!
I love Hanukkah.

I especially love my new boots that I bought, (err I mean that Doug bought for me!) They conveniently arrived in a box on our doorstep on the second night. His timing was impeccable this year!