The Lodger and Us

We're like the Who's in Whoville when it comes to Christmas. We love it.  I remember when I was pregnant with The Lodger dreaming of future Christmases, that would be filled with wonder and magic... and carrying on Christmas traditions my own parents started- The advent calendar, decorating the Christmas Tree, Santa leaving a trail of chocolate money all the way around the house, the Christmas stocking at the end of the bed, the excitement I shared with my sisters on Christmas morning, the gathering of family, the annual chocolate Santa and a selection box, the Christmas morning breakfast, mince pies and chocolate kimberley biscuits in the run up to the main day, Christmas dinner with the delicious smells of spiced beef and red cabbage wafting around the house, the tower of chocolate profiteroles covered in mars bar sauce, the Christmas Day games, the Christmas dinner leftovers to be enjoyed on Stephen's Day, the gathering of friends... The last three Christmases with

Today, we visited a toy shop with The Lodger. We did this to see if there is anything that he would really love Santa to bring him. We’ve been reading the toy catalogue, showing him tv ads of toys he might like but so far, we are coming up short. The Lodger has only one Christmas wish request.... and that can't be bought in a shop!  The Lodger visiting a Christmas shop In classic Lodger style, he has set us a Christmas challenge.... Recently, The Lodger's Auntie asked him what was Santa bringing? The Lodger without hesitation replied  'Walk'. 'A walk?'  I asked. 'Yes!'  he said with the biggest smile on his face as he pointed to outside. I explained that Santa might be so busy that day, bringing gifts to all the good boys and girls all over the world, that he might not be able to bring The Lodger for a walk. I asked  'If Santa can't go for a walk, what else would you like?' 'Dog!'  The Lodger replied wit