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I grab the cups the kids were using and take them to the sink to rinse

“School’s out for the next feeeks Any plans for the holidays yet?” Mrs Tanner asks

I put the cups in the dishwasher, then walk over to gather Daniel’s crayons

“Nope I think we’re going to just stay here Will’s parents are in California with their daughter, Sophia, for Christone”

Her smile turns sad as she walks over to me and lays a hand on my arm “Why don’t you three come here for Christmas dinner? My two kids, Kenneth and Bethany, will be here with both their fae and Cody is Daniel’s Might be nice for the out with”

I look down and flip the lid closed on the crayon box It’s the holidays that are always the hardest This will be the third Christmas we’ll have without Will It was always his favorite holiday, so it was a big deal for our family The house, inside and out, was always decorated to the max All the shelves were filled with nativity scenes, all the doorways had lights and garland, the tree was loaded with ornaht, ays had some type of Christmas snack the whole ot a pajaot to open one Christ It was our tradition I’ve tried to stick with that tradition, to bring the holiday to life for the kids, but it’s just not the same without him

I look back up at Mrs Tanner and offer a s with more people will help distract the kids, and they’ll be able to enjoy the holiday like they are meant to

“Can we do it the day before Christmas Eve? Emma, my best friend, will be in town and we’re supposed to have Christrandmother”

“Absolutely The kids will be here all of Christmas week”

“Then we’d love to But I insist on bringing so”

Her answering s whatever you want As long as you and those two precious kids are here, I’ll be happy”