What a great vacation.

2008 has been quite a year. I won't be sorry to see the end of it, to be quite candid.

I did, however, greatly enjoy my Christmas break. I have to thank the Pres for the extra day--honestly, I needed it. I didn't do much for Christmas this year. I didn't even put up a tree or decorate a single thing. Which, of course, means I don 't have to take that stuff down. I figured that saved me at least three or four days. I've taken long afternoon naps. I'm pretty sure I'm going to pay for that tomorrow at work. Why hasn't North America adopted the marvelous custom of siesta?

For those who may be wondering why I didn't send Christmas cards, again, this year, I'll tell you. The DH and I separated last October. I didn't think that news would make much of a holiday statement--even though I truly believe it has been nothing but beneficial to all parties. Then this year, my father died the Monday before Thanksgiving. Yet another nonholiddayesque piece of news. I have wondered a bit about my reticence to share these significant life events with my friends and family. Most, if not all, already know. I just didn't think it would contribute to any one's holidays.

Life is not, of course, filled only with happy and joyful things. Crap happens at an alarming rate and regularity. Call me the queen of denial if you must, but I just didn't want to think about the sad things this Christmas. So I didn't. I napped, I read; I puttered trying to keep the house picked up. I played with my kid and my dogs. I even let the stupid cat sleep with me. And I have to say--it worked. I feel so much better, which will last until at least 9:00 a.m. in the morning when I have to get back to work and reality.

It was a very good run, though. I hope your holidays will bring you peace and serenity. I think we're going to need it in 2009.