There’s something a little sad about taking down the Christmas lights and decorations. Something about the house losing its “sparkle” and looking a little drab ~ I do love sparkle. Putting decorations away, however, goes much quicker than putting them up since one doesn’t have to consider the destination of each piece except "into the box.” We’ve been at it for a couple of days and I do believe we will finish this evening. All that was displaced is now moving back into form and the routine of days continues. Kids are back at work and universities, gifts are cleared out, and soon all signs of the holiday will be gone. We did stop the other evening long enough for dinner and a movie, Dreamgirls ,with friends. One quickly understands why it is that critics are fascinated with Jennifer Hudson ~ what a voice she has ~ wow ~ but it’s hard to believe that Jamie Foxx is not among SAG nominees as a supporting actor. All in the group agreed that it was likely the finest acting of Eddie Murphy’s career and, of course, he is nominated.

The excitement is building at church over the upcoming move into our new sanctuary. It’s been put off another week until January 28 but we’re assured we won’t have to wait any longer. The new education building is complete and is so spacious I can’t imagine us ever growing out of it. I drove out for lunch with Mother and to take her shopping this afternoon. We had a good time in spite of not finding half of what she wanted. If anyone knows where to locate a “heavy” hairnet (not one of those you find in a drug store but a “heavy” one) please let me know. Don’t hold back…this is one of her more urgent requests. The hunt is on….