Christmas magic

I didn’t think I’d really be able to pull it off, but I did.

Talk about a covert mission. I did all the planning during the day while the kids were at school, and on Christmas Eve, Llama Papa took the kids out while I packed.

On Christmas day we drove over to Grandma and Grandpa’s house—where Santa had left our gifts—and proceeded with Christmas as usual. Which is to say, loud chaotic joyful fun with the cousins while we ate cinnamon rolls and opened presents. I could hardly wait until the last one.

After all the packages were opened, Llama Papa left the room and came back with 3 more gift bags. We set up the video camera and waited while they opened their final gift—matching Mickey Mouse sweatshirts.

“We’re going to Disneyland!” I told them.

The boys just stared at me.

“Today! Our plane leaves today and we’ll be there for a week!”

“Oh,” Twin A. said, going back to his magnet building game.

“Boys! We’re going to Disneyland today!” I tried again.

They all smiled and nodded, but there was no shrieking or jumping up and down. Not quite the reaction I was hoping for, but looking back, I’m glad. Going to Disney without expectations is a good thing.

To be continued…