pc or not, Merry Christmas

It's been a long year. Not quite done, but almost.

It's Christmas and I'm trying to write. I'm stuck and procrastinating, not because I don't enjoy every head-banging minute, but because KV is different and I hope I've grown enough to do it justice.

Thanksgiving isn't good. Too many memories and regrets. I bought a mala last year, right after I broke out in full body hives and (religion alert) I've been doing a lot of praying. Money-wise, this is a crappy Christmas.

I started hating the people who'd ask me, "Are you done with your Christmas shopping?" like it's a requirement. "No," I said after the twentieth person asked me. "I'm not. Payday is Friday and I'm waiting for cash." The last time I used a credit card the issuing company closed it down, and I'm just grateful it was "after" I paid for the hotel, not during.

As a household, we have enough for bills and groceries, but there's not a lot left over. So I count my blessings and I'm grateful. I have friends, a roof over my head and food in my mouth. I have a job when a lot of people don't, good health insurance and okay dental. I have a nice house in a good neighborhood where I'm not afraid to let my kids walk around outside and when I drive, the Cascades rise in the distance like a mirage.

Merry Christmas and best wishes for a profitable, happy New Year.