Okay - I'm going to try to get a post ready tonight but still not entirely certain it's going to happen [and isn't it like *really* early there Ann?].
Thanks to all for your FDK.
Sheila - I do appreciate what you're saying. I think what you're wanting to see is more of what we've discussed before. We don't *know* that Lois doesn't tell Clark to go to a game with Jimmy or whoever, but we haven't seen - or heard - about it. We also haven't seen or heard that she doesn't. I'll make a note of that.
As for Christmas...
Yes, everyone should think they want to be together for Christmas, but I would think these fall under 'extenuating' circumstances. Plans had already been made to go to Smallville. Sam can't go so the options are:
a. All three stay in Metropolis, no one sees M/J since they've said they can't make the trip to Metropolis
b. All three go to Smallville, Sam - fresh off his heart attack - stays home alone for Christmas
c. Split up late Christmas Eve
None of the options are terribly appealing and I think that all the parents/etc involved understand that.
As for what the final decision will be... RAFO

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Carol