Late at night is often when husbands and wives share their most sincerefeelings and thoughts. That being said, a few weeks back, I was really struggling to figure out what exactly to getyoufor Christmas. While you say that you are the easiest person in the world to shop for, I might have to beg to differ on that one. What do you get the perfect wife and mother? Any sort of appliance or item to make your life easier seems to degrade you, because everything you do seems effortless. Any sort of clothing or fashion accessory seems pointless to give to the girlwho is always the best-dressed no matter where she goes. One thing I really wanted to getyou wasn't possible (for legal reasons... no seriously), so I had to come up with something else. Then late one night as we were reflecting on our day while lying in bed, you described what was your idea of a perfect day. I've reflected on that moment so often because it really shows what an outstanding person you are. The things you wish for and desire are so pure. I have almost committed your perfect day to memory. I think it went something like this:
"It would start with a yummy breakfast, maybe pancakes, with you and Charlie. Then we would all snuggle together for a while. Then I'd go get a massage and eat the yummy trail mix while I sit in my robe and wait to be called back. I wouldn't want you and Charlie to just sit there though. I'd want you guys to go somewhere and play or do an activity. After my massage, I would want to go toTarget and just walk around and shop. After spending the afternoon as a family, maybe we could go on a date or something like that."
Well, by now you've guessed that I am giving your perfect day for Christmas. I know this seems pretty simple, but there's a catch. I didn't want this present to be a "one-time" present like the last few big Christmas gifts that I've gotten you. You know, ones where you get to enjoy them one time and then it's over (like the Celine Dion concert, or the Wicked tickets). I want this idea of Ashley's Perfect Day to become a tradition/habit for our family. I think this is feasible to do once a month and maybe even more during months with special occasions like birthdays, anniversary's, etc. Each month, I will change things up a little, so you don't get bored with a routine (even though we all know how much you like a routine). We will select a day together that works best each month (usually a Saturday) and that will be your Perfect Day.
Here's what is included in your first Perfect Day:
- A breakfast of your choice, prepared by Noel or your favorite breakfast eatery.
- Post-breakfast family snuggle time.
- A "Long-leaf Pine Spa Day" at the Umstead Spa (includes Swedish Massage, Facial, Pedicure, and of course... Trail Mix).
- 2 hours uninterrupted shopping time in Target.
- Peace of mind knowing that Noel & Charlie will be going to visit Granny Anderson and Nana & Pops to play.
- Lunch of your choice.
- Afternoon of family time uninterrupted by Blackberry's, cell phones, or computers.
- Evening date night (Noel will arrange baby sitter) to include dinner and a trip to a movie of your choice (includes a Coke with a straw).
Finally, as the last part of the present, we will work together to keep this blog going so people can see all the fun times we spend together. We'll post pictures, movie reviews, and our favorite stories from our time together each month. You're more than welcome to change the layout and themes for this blog.
Ashley, I hope you realize this Christmas Season how much Charlie and I appreciate and love you. We literally struggle to function without y
ou. You are a wonderful example of a righteous follower of Christ and His teachings. You are a selfless care-taker in our home. Our goal is give someone who seems so perfect in our eyes, a few perfect days.
Love,
Noel & Charlie (C3 &C4)
