Despite the fact that Tyler is 9 1/2 years old and wants everyone to know how grown up he is, he was really upset last week when I told him I didn't think we would have time before leaving on our cruise to go visit Santa. 

Because I think it's pretty cool that he still believes, I found the time during a last minute dash to find him a suit to wear during "formal night".  We went to a different mall than our normal "Santa Mall", so I wasn't sure what to expect, but this Santa was perfect.  He even assured Tyler that he would find all the boys and girls on the cruise ship and make sure to visit them.

Tyler was happy and all has turned out well.

We had a rough start to the cruise with gale force winds and visions of the Poseidon Adventure dancing in our heads.  My Dad fell down, and for the first day kept teasing me by asking HOW many more days we had left on the cruise?   (He's 91 and his mind is GREAT... but he knew that the reason we cruised instead of flying to Hawaii was because it's easier for him physically.... (Well, that was the THEORY anyway.)   But aside from a rough start, we've all had a wonderful holiday so far.  We're already able to catch the rays on the back deck now that the seas have calmed.  We had a wonderful gathering on Christmas morning and we shared some laughs and some nice gifts.  We're looking forward to more adventures in Hawaii.  

I haven't painted a bit yet...   Hopefully I'll be able to do some ... but not yet.

I hope all of you have enjoyed your Christmas Day as well!!