Imitation

Santa was very good to us this year. Not only did we get some fun things, but best of all, we got to spend time with our families. It was a really wonderful time.

Since getting back to St. Louis on the 28th, I've been a slug because I've been depressed. Over the holidays everyday was so full of fun and activity with our families. And now I'm homesick. But, I guess it's time to get back to doing things. Anyway, thank you to everyone for all the wonderful things you did for us. Thank you for your generosity and love.

Santa also was a little silly and mischievous this year. J.D. got this new fragrance in his stocking Christmas morning:

Yes, he received "Just Like Eternity: Men's Cologne." (He normally wears Eternity). But what I love most about this particular bottle is the double way you can read it. Your eyes first read the biggest words: "Just Like Eternity." Then you can read it this way: "Just Like is not connected in any way with Eternity."

We think Santa must have picked this up for J.D. at the dollar store, which is evidence that the economy really is affecting everyone. :) On the back it informs potential wearers: "'Just Like' is not associated, related, or connected in any way with the trademark appearing on this product. This is for comparison only." Of course, no one believes that. You see it and know what they're trying to do. Obviously, the first reading of the product is intended to make either very naive or very optimistic buyers think this bottle really is the next-best thing to Eternity. But, then, all you need is your nose to bring home the impact of the second reading. We came to the consensus that it really smelled like "Old Man Barber Shop," which you could argue about its merits, but is most certainly not the scent of Eternity.

Perhaps the most fun was simply passing this bottle around Christmas morning, insisting everyone smell it. Santa must have known it would be good fun. Mom sprayed it around; Casey moved away to prevent any getting on him; Candice exclaimed it smelled worse than any barber shop; Dad sniffed it without making much fuss, and Chad pulled a face when the fragrance was unleashed upon him by his sisters. Eau de Cologne, fragrant oils, or alcohol and water, it's all toilet water to Santa!

Anyway, taking a clue from Just Like, for now I'll imitate. I'll simulate happiness until it might be real again.