Christmas from Kansas.

Day 1 of the "Capital Crippler" is done. There are about two feet of snow covering our driveway, and we might try to dig out a little tomorrow. I'll put some more photos together tomorrow of our winter wonderland. I haven't seen snow like this (that I remember) except in Colorado. Rachel and I are making bets about when they will cancel school for Monday, but I am trying not to get my hopes up. They have all day to start digging out. It is completely unlikely that I will get to fly home before my scheduled flight on the 24th because the planes will be crowded Sunday through Wednesday from today's shutdown.

I don't have a lot of Christmas decorations out this year, but the ones that are out are important reminders of Kansas' Christmases. The skinny tree looks a little bit like Charlie Brown's, but I have had it since Christmas 2004 when I lived with Nanette, Andria, Tara, Rach, and Katherine. It's been decorated in four different houses and (most) of the lights still work. I love it because it is skinny, fits everywhere, and holds all the ornaments I've collected so far.

Abbey painted the window and added wire for pictures. She's so crafty! I cleared it off after Thanksgiving and now it is covered with all of the lovely Christmas cards that have arrived from Kansas, New York, West Virginia and even Jamaica.

And the wreath is beloved. It's not fancy, and Martha might be embarrassed to hang it in her house. But I made it when I lived on Juliette during my senior year at K-State, and it brightens the front door. I have considered replacing it, but not now. I like having Kansas on my door. And in the living room and on my wall.

I'll be home for Kansas Christmas in less than a week!