Winter in Texas

So I've finally admitted that autumn is over and winter is finally upon us and my first impression of the state may have worn off. With the changing of the seasons I still love my second home but I must say there are a few observations that I feel must be reported. I don't know how my Mother ever managed the changing of the seasons in California but the abrupt, yet welcome drop in temperature has been.... special. Christmas decorations are flying up (sometimes more literally than figuratively), it takes us at least seven minutes to dress every individual child for the weather, leaves are migrating into the house with every little person's step, Jim get's out every time a door is left open, and the baby's breath has become special to say the least. With all this cheerfulness it's hard to stay sober... er, I meant somber. This will be my first Christmas away from my parents and brothers and sister; as happy as I am to be here, I sometimes get caught up with the fact that there are people who aren't here... that normally are. I just want you to know that I miss you, I wish you were here, but I feel like I'm supposed to be here now. Don't feel neglected- just remember that in everything I do, I am most CERTAINLY my Father's daughter... but I promise not to marry a guy who doesn't speak your language or your culture... or join the seminary for ten years.