Howdy there~ (That there way of talkin' is kinda infectious). I've missed you and feel a little guilty for my absence - not that you've noticed. We've all been a little busy these past few weeks haven't we. Truth is these holidays left me feeling like I've had a swift whack to the back of my knees with a bamboo cane. Even though I felt mostly in charge and tried to keep things in check - they just sort of leveled me. Maybe it's year two of my solo journey, maybe it's this time of year, perhaps it's my own apathy - I really don't know. I just want to do a quick check even though my heart isn't in it. No reflection on you - it's me. I'm feeling just a bit heavy-hearted but not full blown depression. I'm ok.
As emotional as it all was, Christmas was truly wonderful with our grown children all around me snuggled in our mountain retreat. We headed up a couple of days before, trimmed a "Charley Brown" Christmas tree with strings of popcorn and cranberries. We were all virtually "unplugged" and spent our time cooking, baking, reading, listening to Christmas music, and just being together. In spite of the forecast it snowed on Christmas day just as the kids predicted. They were convinced that Apu would arrange it. It was truly magical.
Grabbed a tree on the way up (a story in itself!) Our cabin Christmas
Traditions remain~ Owl PJ's in force! (another story...sheez)
Christmas surprise! Mikey came for a visit!!! (Scout was SO happy)
Our girls had to head south to their homes in California before the new year, but I found myself back up in the mountains to celebrate New Year's Eve with a couple of my siblings and a nephew. A foot of snow had fallen during the week-glorious! It was nice - laid back, just the way I prefer to begin the new year. Even in the best of times I've been nostalgic at auld lang syne (translated "old long since") - while most things do, some things never change.
So, the road's been a little rough lately, but I keep it all in perspective - I'm fine, the gang is great (a few heart breaks here and there) and relatively speaking things could be a whole hell-of-a-lot worse - I am well aware of that. I'm back at work and all manner of craziness is already in play, so I don't have much time to wallow. As I said, I've missed you and promise to harass you more frequently - I think my weary soul needs it. Happy New Year to all and may your travels be light and breezy, at least try to avoid hitting "the hard rock" and .....try to stay out of jail.
Up at the lake - New Year's Day
Woody Guthrie, huh? Now y'or gittin it. Looks like a wonderful Christmas was had by everyone...Mikey was quite the little elf :)
Next Sunday will be one year for me. I can't believe it's been that long already...it still seems like yesterday. Hang in there Patti...
Posted by: Jim | January 15, 2012 at 12:52 PM