Yesterday was a day of strange happenings. I decided to head to the local bookstore for a bit of a break from the kids. With a cup of coffee in hand I began the browse. As I passed the customer service desk I overheard two employees talking about some autographed books. I stopped and looked to see what books they were talking about. I just about fell over when I saw the graphic novel version of Neil Gaiman's Stardust (illustrated by Charles Vess) sitting on top of the pile. Merry Christmas to me! Mr. Charles Vess had just been in the store and signed the only illustrated copy of Stardust they had and he also signed several copies of Susanna Clark's The Ladies of Grace Adieu and Other Stories. I am now the proud owner of a signed graphic novel. Not that I didn't want Clark's short story book but, as a single mom (this will be recurring theme) struggling to finish college I have to make these difficult choices.
Now as if my day hadn't already been interesting. I received a phone call when I arrived home. A friend of mine wanted to know if the kids and I were busy. She informed me that Santa Claus needed to stop by the house and make a delivery. Within an hour of her call Santa came over and delivered a load of gifts for the kids. (Which I must thank the wonderful women that I go to college with who made all of this possible.)
The strange happenings didn't stop there. We had one more incredible experience. My son, Lydon, received a gift card to Gamestop. As we waited in line with approximately 14 other people and only one register running, on December 23 mind you. My middle daughter, Sienna, kept asking for a new video game. There was no way I could buy her this game. My older daughter, Poet, took Sienna out to the car. (Sienna has Asperger's along with other physical disabilities. She doesn't always appreciate lack of cash.) A couple standing in front of us picked up the game Sienna was asking for and attempted to purchase it. The young man behind the counter couldn't find the disc for the game and the woman turned to me and asked if there was another game my daughter would like for Christmas? Honestly, I was shocked and touched. These two strangers who I have no names for purchased a brand new video game for my child, handed it to me, and wished me Happy Holidays. So, thank you whoever you are out there!
Despite the fact that my life seems to be crumbling around me-- I have to find a new place to live, this fall was the semester from Hell (with a capitol "H"), I have serious cash flow problems, my film is in limbo, my daughter needs a better school and much needed therapy -- other things are on an upswing.
Despite the fact that my life seems to be crumbling around me-- I have to find a new place to live, this fall was the semester from Hell (with a capitol "H"), I have serious cash flow problems, my film is in limbo, my daughter needs a better school and much needed therapy -- other things are on an upswing.
