I Heart Walmart

Here's something the folks down in Bentonville might like to know...Since I arrived in the Hoosier state five days ago, a representative from the Kiefer/Reuhs household has made an appearance at the Walmart at 71st and Keystone every single day. Here's the breakdown:

Friday- Mom headed over for ingredients to make cookies and crafts with the grandkids.

Saturday-Mom, Emily, William and Alex shopped for groceries for Aunt Sue's Christmas party.

Sunday- Emily and Eileen swung by to pick up the joint Christmas gift for Mom and Dad and to pick up Emily's Christmas cards, which still haven't been mailed.

Monday- Mom and Emily returned late night to pick up wrapping paper and to ruminate on several potential Santa gifts, a process which involved quite a bit of questioning, calling Nick, over analyzing and eventually leaving the store (time: Midnight) empty-handed.

Tuesday Afternoon-Mom and Emily were baaaaaaaaaack! Hey, everyone! This time we needed groceries for Christmas Eve dinner and diapers.

Tuesday Evening-Can't say for sure because I opted out of this evenings' shopping excursion, but I have an inkling she's back over there picking up last minute stocking stuffers.

Now, the reason I'm reflecting on I Heart Walmart is because in so many ways, including in our shopping habits, my mom and I are kindred spirits. I love it. Others would have thrown their arms up in utter frustration at the continued inefficiency with which we operate, but we just laugh because we know something they don't...There's a drive-thru Starbucks just across the street from our favorite discount retailer.

Missing!

Like the many pranksters who have come before him, William has stolen the baby Jesus from our Nativity scene.  Or, at least temporarily removed (hidden) Him.  I first noticed the missing Christ Child late this evening as I was tidying up our dining room in preparation for our trip tomorrow. I've looked everywhere, but I still can't find Him.  Now, William hasn't been a chance to tell his side of the story since he's sleeping, but I'm left to wonder...Did he take baby Jesus downstairs to watch Cars as he previously suggested?