Saturday morning, we heard sirens in our neighborhood (which, sadly, is not that uncommon for our 'hood - don't ask). It got louder, and closer, and finally I was curious enough to see what was up. We were about to leave for the grocery store anyway, so I loaded up the kids and peeked my head around the corner to see what the hub-bub was. I caught a glimpse of Santa up on a firetruck, waving and throwing candy to kids in the neighborhood. Being the excellent mother that I am, I peeled out of the driveway, determined to chase him down so my kids see him, too. I caught up with him at the stopsign, and the Short Ones were thrilled, and I basked in motherly self-delight.

It was all worth it as we pulled away, and Wrenn said matter-of-factly, "I guess something must be wrong with his sleigh, Mom."

And Eli dramatically exclaimed, "Oh NOOOO!!!!"