{Friday Giveaway!}

The other day as I was waiting in the checkout line at the local thrift store (oh, I found the loveliest cream crocheted table cloth that just fits our round school table!), the woman in front of me was pulling her things together to leave when the cashier wished her, "Happy Holidays!"

The woman leaned in and hissed, "What did you say?"

The cashier smiled, "I said Happy Holidays!"

"Which holiday?" she demanded.

"Well, Christmas . . ." stammered the clerk. "Some people get offended . . ."

"Then say Merry Christmas!" she growled, and stomped out of the store, muttering other Scrooge-like comments under her breath.

Well. That was something to behold. (I like to call it irony.) Also pretty sad. I was as merry and cheerful as could be to that cashier, looking at her with eyes that oozed, "I'm really sorry you have to deal with people like that."

And when she wished me "Happy Holidays," I said, "Thank you! You have a great day!" even though I wouldn't have been the slightest bit offended if she had said "Merry Christmas."

Sigh. What is this world coming to? Well, there is still good in this world! And to prove it, I'm going to give away another delicious book: Little House in the Big Woods. EVERYONE in this aching world should be required to read the Little House books. Don't you think? I have a few copies of the set in my house -- I intend to see that my children's someday homes are properly furnished with all of them -- but this is an extra! It's in good used condition, with a slight crease on the spine and a few very gentle wrinkles on a couple of the front pages. No odors, writing or tears.  

I would love for this book to find a place on your bookshelf! If you would too (and your mailing address is in the US), go ahead and leave me a comment here on the blog or under the link on facebook (one entry per person). In your comment, why don't you mention one scene or story that stands out in your mind from any of the Little House books. If you haven't read them yet, just promise me you will someday! :o) I'll announce a winner next Friday!

Have a wonderful weekend, my friends. We had a little dusting of snow this morning, and Little Miss is down with a bit o' fever. (Not to be confused with the Fever n' Ague of Little House fame.) So we're hunkering down with warm drinks, books and Christmas movies. I'm pulling for White Christmas, but I might be outnumbered by the Elf fans. Either way, I'm sure it will be jolly and merry and happy. Whichever way you say it.