We interrupt these Carol Contemplations for this special report

What is more Christmasy than Tuba Christmas? Tuba Christmas with my favorite kids, their beloved mother, my best auntie and cousin, and my handsome honey, of course! AND THEN–dinner at the Flying Fig, where my favorite kids' talented father makes uber-yummy food!

We started the adventure at the Christmas market at Lock 3 in Akron. Doughnuts and hot chocolate.

Awesome hat, Kristen

More awesome hats

And some disguises

After this fun, we walked uphill for three blocks to E.J. Thomas hall and Tuba Christmas! It was already packed, so we couldn't all get seats together. Chad and I took Ben and sat in the very back, Kristen had the girls right up front, and Heidi & Jordan sat three rows ahead of us.

As usual, Tubas playing Christmas carols make me cry. I think it's a sign of . . .well, something.

So crazy fun! Of course, half-way through, Ben sighed loudly and said in his loud, bell-like voice, "Is this OVER yet?" It's kind of a long time for a five-year-old. He liked ringing his jingle bell during all the clapping bits, though.

Afterwards, we made the trek up to Cleveland to eat at The Flying Fig.

A little kissing torture for Olivia, who completely deserved it.

It was such a great day, it almost made up for my very painful night. I've been coughing for two weeks, and last week, I hurt my sides somehow while coughing. I've been in some breathtaking pain ever since, unable to bend very well, and not comfortable trying to sleep. I finally saw my dr. today, and she prescribed drugs. Lots and LOTS of drugs. I'm hoping to soon feel better enough to finish decorating for Christmas, do my laundry, vacuum up the massive hair swirls all over the floor, and bake some cookies.

We will now return you to your regularly scheduled programming.