Los Flemings

Santa visited the Y last night before returning to the North Pole to finish preparations for Christmas Eve. Ford and Jack didn't quite know what to make of the experience.

One of Sam's activities at Evergreen is a cross-grade service group called CREW. They recently took a field trip to visit a local artist who is a former classmate of Sam's teacher. Click here for a slideshow of their visit.

Last Saturday we took a trip to the North Pole on the Polar Express departing from Bryson City. Ms. Lynn joined us on a beautiful afternoon. On the return the sun had gone down and we enjoyed all the Christmas lights.












Pulling in to the station for us to board.






Santa passed through the cars after we made it to the North Pole and all the kids got silver bells.

On a wet afternoon, the fun is in rolling it down the neighbors driveway.

We were saddened to get the news that Sam's piano teacher, Mr. Paul, died last Saturday while working in his garden. Santa delivered Sam's piano in 2008 and he started lessons with Paul the following January. Paul had a wonderful teaching style and seemingly unfathomable patience. Over the last few years he had built a strong rapport with Sam, who looked forward to their weekly time together. Sam was preparing for a recital on December 11 that has been canceled. He is willing to play his piece, "A Neat Beat", for anyone who will listen. And as his own little tribute to Mr. Paul, Sam declared he is going to learn a new piece without any help.

We will miss you Mr. Paul.