Kathy: Hi, Michelle. Boy, it looks like you’ve done all your Christmas shopping in one day. I’ve never seen anyone trying to carry that many packages in the mall.

Michelle: I know. Can you take these two off the top for me, so I can rest for a minute. Some of this stuff I had on lay-away and some were just great bargains I couldn’t resist. I can’t believe Christmas will be here so soon.

Kathy: It seems like only yesterday we were directing Vacation Bible School together. Remember that fun summer week?

Michelle: Remember? How could I forget the plaster of paris in my hair, or that little boy, uh, what was his name, Jason? that you told to “Hurry, and paint his nose,” because it was time to go home. I know you meant for him to paint the nose on his paper plate clown, but when he turned around and I saw he had painted his own nose red, I almost lost it!

Kathy: Oh, I know. That was hilarious! I decided then and there to try and watch how I say things.

Michelle: I know what you mean. Speaking of Christmas, have you finished your shopping yet? You usually go all out for this holiday.

Kathy: Yes, I’m finished. I heard Tom Bias preaching a few weeks ago on TV about what Christmas really means, and how we go overboard. That really made me think about what I do for the holiday.

Michelle: You know how men are. He probably was just aggravated with his wife for spending so much money. People should keep their nose out of other people’s business. That’s how I feel about it.

Kathy: Now, Michelle, don’t get upset. Nobody said you go overboard when it comes to Christmas. But I felt like that message was for me. I felt like it was time for me to think about my motives.

Michelle: Your motives? What do you mean? Our motive for buying Christmas gifts is because its Christmas and that’s what we do! (getting angry) The wise men did it - therefore it is our responsibility to do it, too!

David: Well, there you are. And there’s Kathy! Is that a new hair color? Everytime I see you it’s a different shade.

Kathy: Hi, David. No this is the same color I’ve had since more of my gray started showing through.

David: I’ve been looking all over the mall for you, honey. Wow, look at all these packages. I’ll bet you have melted that new credit card, haven’t you?

Michelle: No, I have not! Now don’t you start in on me, too.

David: What are you talking about? (as if speaking to a child) Is Kathy being mean to you?

(end of excerpt)