Last Day of November

As I walked across the Village Square this morning, on my way to HQ, I couldn't help but be impressed by the Decorating Team. The Starbucks wasn't even open yet and half the village was already decorated. Elves and reindeer were scurrying every which way with ladders, lights, ornaments, garland, and more. The tree was just arriving but already a crew had assembled to hoist it into position. I was already anticipating the tree lighting but I still couldn't help but notice a dull headache that I'd had since I awoke.

Once I got to HQ, I attended an early morning slate of meetings including an updated review of the Christmas Eve travel plans, daily staff meeting, and an update from the Decorating Committee. My headache was still with me as I headed out to the sleigh to begin my day of mall appearances but I took a couple of aspirin and it was gone by the time we landed in Shanghai. The day went fast... relatively speaking. Before I knew it, we had finished up in Honolulu and were headed home for the evening.

Upon my return, the Decorating Team was putting up the final preparations. I made a quick inspection round with team lead. Everything looked good and I signed off to let the official tree lighting go on as scheduled. I LOVE the annual North Pole Christmas Tree Lighting. Hot Chocalate, roasted chestnuts, hot apple cider, ginger bread cookies, Christmas carols... how much more fun can that be. And the best part is I can just be myself and enjoy the ceremony as a participant. Mrs. Claus gets the lighting honors at the North Pole.

But I had an hour or so before the lighting, so I rushed home and met Mrs. Claus for dinner. Then it was off to the lighting. What a grand celebration! Of course, it only lasted a couple of hours and it was back to work for everyone. I retired to my office at the house (I have one there and at HQ) to make some phone calls, review the day's status reports, and finish up this blog. Now as I look at the clock, I'm thinking there is a ton to do but my alarm clock goes off in 3 hours. So I better get to bed. Good night!