Life, Not As It Used To Be

Chapter 8: Three Nights Before Christmas

December 22nd, 3 days before Christmas. Wow, has this year flew by. I wish the time would just slow down a bit. Before I know it will be Carter's first birthday.

I plan on going last minute Christmas shopping today. Mrs. Thompson said she would watch Carter for the day. She said I need a break anyways. I got dressed in an oversized long sleeve t-shirt, Old Navy light washed skinny jeans, black Uggs, my black scarf with white crosses. I pulled my hair into a side fishtail braid. I decided to put on a little bit of makeup today so I put on some eyeliner and mascara. I also applied a tad bit of MAC Rebel lipstick. I normally don't wear lipstick but for some odd reason I felt like it.

I grabbed my phone and my wallet, headed over to Carter's nursery. He was already awake and dressed. I had him in his crib playing with a few toys while I got dressed.

"Let's go monkey. You are going to play with Kaelyn while I go shopping." I picked him up from the crib. I walked down stairs and grabbed my keys and Carter's things, making sure I locked the door when I walked out. I walked across the yard to the Thompson's household. It only took a knock and the door flew open. Sawyer darted through the door. He stormed off to his car and speed out of the driveway. Well, I wasn't expecting that, that's for sure.

"Oh, hello dear! Come on in." Mrs Thompson ushered me in the living room. "Don't mind him, he is just a bit upset." A bit huh? That seemed more like he was furious and was ready to blow something up.

"Are you sure you don't just want me to take Carter with me. I don't want to force him on you." I asked her, making sure it was okay for Carter to still be here.

"Oh hush dear. If anything I am the one forcing you to let me watch him." Mrs. Thompson waved it off.

"You're sure?" I asked again.

"Yes." She took Carter and his bag. "Now go have a you day. Get your nail done, your hair done, buy a new outfit. Don't just spend your whole day shopping for other people. If you want to, find a quiet place to just relax for a bit. Have a wonderful day! We will be right here when you get back."

I smiled. Mrs. Thompson has been nothing but nice to us, she deserves a gifts for Christmas.

"Thanks you Mrs. Thompson. I really do appreciate it."

"You're welcome. Now go!" She shooed me out the door.

I walked back over to my house and got in my 2014 Mazda CX-9 Sport AWD. Yes, that is correct. I passed my drivers test! I then went out and bought this baby. I haven't really taken Molly anywhere, so I guess today is her lucky day.

I drove to the local mall a few miles away from my house. I didn't quite know what I was going to do, I did know I need to get Christmas presents.

I walked through different stores not sure what to buy anyone. I look in every store. Nothing caught my eye. I didn't find one single thing in the mall. I decided to go ahead and get my nails done. I chose a maroon color and also went with sparkling gold for my ring finger. I thought they looked wonderful for Christmas. I thanked the woman who was nice enough to stay with me while I babbled who knows what before I payed and left.

I walked around the mall a bit more before it hit me. Get Kayla a spa day! She has been under a lot of stress from her parents so why not. I walked out of the mall to my car. I called Escapes Day Spa and ordered her a full day. I hung up the phone and started driving around. I couldn't go back home, Mrs, Thompson told me not to till it dark. It isn't dark yet.

I didn't know really where I was going. I was just driving and where I end up is where I end up. I was thinking on the way what to get everyone else. Mrs. Thompson loves to cook so why not a cook book. Sam plays baseball and loves Cal Ripken Jr.. Chase plays soccer and loves Brian McBride. I decided I would get the boys an autograph baseball and soccer ball. It might be a struggle since it is this close to Christmas but I will find a way. Kaelyn, I am going to get her a drawing tablet and some play makeup. Maybe even a cute outfit or dress.