Favorite things Friday . . . on Thursday!

We have had a rough week around here, as people have traded off nasty stomach bugs and Clara and Xavier are still not really themselves. It's been hard not to be grumpy. So, I'm going to think of some of my favorite things today! (I also am hopefully going to Cashmere tomorrow to visit my parents for a day or two, so I wouldn't be able to do this then anyway). A few favorite things:

1. Target. I love it. We use their generic brand wipes and formula, so I have an excuse to go there at least every other week, and just love their stuff. I am so grateful that both Xavier and Clara enjoy sitting in a shopping cart and looking at things and people, at least if they have been well-fed and it's not nap time, so that I can get out and sometimes just get one or two things there. I love their holiday stuff, too!

2. My dad's Christmas open house, which is what I'm going to Cashmere for tomorrow. My family moved to Cashmere (which is a teeny little town in between Leavenworth and Wenatchee, for those of you who don't know. Next time you go to Leavenworth, drive about 10 minutes further and stop by . . . it's cute!) when I was ten years old because my dad bought the pharmacy there. It has an old-fashioned soda fountain and everything! Very cute. Anyway, starting that year, he hosted a Christmas Open house on the Friday night before Thanksgiving, as a way to start the holiday shopping season for his loyal customers, and also just a way to thank them with live music and holiday food. It has been a tradition ever since. When I was in high school and was "Queen Cashmere," the two princesses and I sang a few Mariah Carey three-part harmony songs at the event, and my friend, Jennifer, and I have always sung a few favorites. My dad plays the piano and he has programmed into his computer bass and drum parts for several Christmas songs, including lots of Amy Grant classics ( "Emmanuel medley" . . . so old school, but so classic!) some Manheim Steamroller stuff, and some Charlie Brown. The store employees dress up, and some years they have had a certain theme for it. Many people from the town come. Oh, and he always has kids get up front for a few songs and sing Rudolph and Jingle Bells in their cute holiday attire!

I could go on and on . . . but Clara just woke up from nap, so I'd better go.