Dear Santa letter

Elli and her friend Lou Lou wrote their letter to Santa last week.

They used a cute template we found on the Macy's website. It has music while you're writing and cute decorations to jazz up your letter. Plus they force you to keep it to one page. And the best part? Macy's will donate $1 for every Santa letter received to the Make-A-Wish Foundation up to $1 million dollars. Pretty cool.

Lou Lou finished her letter. Then it was Elli's turn. She wouldn't let me see her list. Bah! Fortunately, she did let me take a peek at her notes. Lucky for me she put a red star by the things she really wants.

Yesterday we dropped off Elli's secret Santa letter at Macy's. Woo hoo!

Elli asked what I was going to ask Santa for. My list for Santa is really short. I just want one thing. A job. And I believe he'll deliver!

Dear Santa

December 20, 2009

Dear Santa,

I don't know about you, but I'm really glad 2009 is just about over.  I'm sure the economic crisis affected your toy workshop in the North Pole, just like it affected our lives down here in sunny California.

Looking back, I would say I've been mostly nice this year. A little bit naughty. But who isn't?

I survived nearly getting fired by my client. Don and I were able to keep the business afloat and not let anyone go. We did reduce hours, but everyone had a job. Elli has been flourishing. She and I have spent a lot of time cooking together. I have accidentally yelled at her for spilling flour on the floor.  (that would be the naughty part.) I started this crazy blog and even attended a blog conference to learn more about this stuff. We're all healthy (flu aside) and of sound mind (in my opinion anyway.) I should probably spend more time with Don, my better half, instead of spending so much time on the computer and iPhone (naughty part, again.) I'm still learning how to juggle everything. And I may have had a little too much wine on occasion and called my client a few bad names, but other than that, I've been pretty good.

We did support several charities this year, including Elli's school and gave toys to the firefighters for the less fortunate kids in the bay area. We also helped a friend in need this year with food and assistance whenever she needed it. We do try hard to be there for others.

So you're probably wondering what it is I want for Christmas. I've been beating around the bush on purpose. It's a biggie. The only thing we want is financial stability - just like everyone else. I know it's a big thing to ask for. But it's the one thing that weighs most heavily on us every day. The stress of keeping the business going and supporting all 7 employees, and our family, is tremendous.

I know you won't be leaving a stocking full of gold coins or a set of tires under the tree. But if you could pass on good wishes and hope for a prosperous 2010 for us, and everyone we know, we would be most appreciative.

Safe travels to you and the reindeer.

Your friend,

Kris

PS. I made breakfast bars yesterday. I'll be sure to leave some out for you. They are delish.