#NewThisDay Writing From My Photo Stream

Today was the official opening day of SantaLand, and I worked as a Magic Window Elf, a Santa Elf, and an Usher Elf. The Magic Window is located in the adult quick peep line. My job was to say, "Step on the magic star, and look through the window, and you can see Santa." I was at the Magic Window for 15 minutes before a man approached me and said, "You look so stupid."

I have to admit that he had a point. But still, I wanted to say that at least I get paid to look stupid, that he gives it away for free. But I can't say things like that because I'm supposed to be merry. So instead, I said, "Thank you." Thank you, as if I had misunderstood and thought he had said, "You look terrific." Thank you.

~ David Sedaris, SantaLand Diaries

Such a sweet and restful, unusual and happy Christmas Day with a quiet house, and a slow pace, and lots of time to talk and be with Frank and two of our children. I made lasagna for dinner and fresh foccacia bread and we lingered and chatted in such a deep way at dinner by the fire. All the presents are wrapped! Without any stress! I took my walk at the track and had deep, cathartic belly laughs listening to SantaLand Diaries, on This American Life podcast, David Sedaris. I’ve heard it countless times and still laugh with such deep pleasure. I’m sure if anyone else was out on the track they’d think something with seriously strange about me. Tomorrow, Wave returns, and Santa comes tomorrow night. And Franci and Will return. Had a nice chat with Franci who is with Will’s family. She’s happy there, and also, I’m sure, just a little homesick, as Franci always is.