Walking into the Holidays

The seasons are advancing. We're finally seeing cooler days and the kids in warmer clothes. Now that both are 'experienced' walkers, they get more outdoor exercise in their white StrideRites. It's still an occasional challenge to slide their feet snugly into the shoes and double-lace them while NL are wriggling and complaining of the injustice of having to sit still for 90 seconds. Though, the kids feel fairly comfortable tramping about on- and off-road, across the front lawn, over the curb, through muddy spots, and into the generally quiet residential Harding Street. I've just a bit of anxiety when they pick up speed down the slope of our driveway; they fall often enough on level ground and don't give inclines the respect and steady maneuvering they deserve.

Yesterday we joined the nation in observing Thanksgiving. Though, we parted from custom by passing on turkey and instead patronized BeniHana. NL were not as wowed by the egg-juggling and shrimp-tossing-in-hat chef as they'd been in the past. Perhaps it was his "best 3 out of 5" attitude that diminished their respect. Rightfully so.

A week before Christmas, the Wieleckis are again boarding an aeroplane for NL's maiden voyage to Chicago. Kelly will attend a friend's bridal shower a week before the Noel, so we'll spend the actual holiday back in Orlando. And, eventually, if the stars assume the right positions, we'll be leaving Central Florida for a locale that promises at least a fleeting chance of a white Christmas.