Ellie the organizer.

A lot of whining today.

This is how it goes at the beginning of any break from school. They don't know what to do with themselves. Always wanting to be off school, then have a hard time settling into an activity if a teacher didn't tell them to do it. So the morning was siting around, wondering what to do next.

Eventually the girls wrapped the gifts for the Japanese girl (Kokoro) who is coming tomorrow. Maddie went on to read two books (re-reading AGAIN a Percy Jackson book, and also the new one from Kate Dicamillo) and Ellie took it upon herself to remove all presents from the tree and replace them in groupings according to who they are for. At one point Maddie looked up from her book and said with disdain "Ellie, you are such an organizer." Sounds like it should be complimentary, but the tone made it sound like a definite dis'.

So our presents are ready to be opened Christmas morning in an orderly fashion. Although Ellie pointed out that I only have two presents under the tree. I offered to take some of hers, and Ellie counter offered that I can sit with her while she opens them all. Ellie has even gone so far as to number the order that she will be opening her gifts. She really is an organizer (said as a definite compliment :)

We are excited to be seeing the Thorntons tomorrow morning- haven't seen them since we lived in Florida. Later in the day off to the airport to pick Kokoro up. I should have some fun stuff to write about tomorrow night!

A P.S. to anyone wondering- all travelers from last night's post have made it to their destinations safely ;)