Here’s a series of photos of Christmas presents. First, check out Joyce’s attempts to camouflage the Eiffel Tower. She took a water bottle, cut off the top, punched holes in the sides, and attached it using ribbon. She then wrapped the whole thing up in paper. I had no idea what it was, and still …

{Before I get started, I know you’ve all been waiting anxiously to hear about the fate of my AC adapter. I found it as soon as I powered down the laptop last night. Whew!) So, kids. Gather ’round for story time. Because I do so love a good yarn, this is going to be long. …

Let’s be really clear and upfront about one thing: While I was in Mountain Home, my primary mode of exercise was following my mom around Wal-Mart (which, as it turns out, I’m *REALLY* good at!), and I ate total crap. The other day, I was a bit horrified to step outside myself for a second …

Today was a really long day. Epic, really. So insane, I hardly know where to begin. But let’s start with the most pressing matter, actually: I have no idea where my laptop’s AC adapter is. Nor am I sure what’s happened to my once-great ability to keep AC adapters handy, but in all fairness… well. …

Today, I spent the afternoon dipping things in chocolate. And by “things,” I mean candy. Here are a few pictures of the results. From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 Mmmmm. Cherry pie! FromChristmas in Arkansas 2008

Comfort zones are most often expanded through discomfort. I’m not sure why this Christmas Eve fortune cookie made me laugh so hard, but it did.

Well, kids, as I suspected, Santa did not bring me a fully-weighted 88-key keyboard for Christmas. This was no surprise and was not at all a disappointment. I knew it was highly unlikely. 🙂 Instead, I *did* get a snazzy new microwave and completely perfect toaster that promises “carefree” toasting. Until I saw that on …

So, if you’ve been paying any attention at all, you know that the Norell clan tends to go a wee bit overboard with the Christmas cheer. For starters, *everyone* in this house still believes in Santa Claus — you’re just simply not allowed in the door this time of year if you don’t. Yesterday, Grandma …

From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 Here’s Gabriel, the adopted grandson, oh-so-eager to have his picture taken. It’s a nonstop barrel of laughs here Chez Norell this year. Today I’m on wrapping duty and participating in the Holiday Baking Extravaganza. Happy Christmas Eve! 🙂

OK, so maybe “incredible” takes this a bit too far. Yes, yes, alright, it’s definitely going too far. But nevertheless, things are progressing famously! I am not sure how, since I haven’t exercised (in any sort of rigorous way) in over a week now (thank you vacation, grrr) and have been eating all sorts of …