Hello Again

I was planning to title this post The Dead Rise Again, but after just reading that Saddam Hussein was executed, I felt a need to pick a different title. I had a very odd sensation when I read that news article that I can't quite describe - but I do certainly wonder how it will affect the war.

As for why I haven't posted in a month - man, it's not been that fun. First, it started off with a nasty nasty cold. Then the death of a long time family friend of ovarian cancer (which let me tell you is NOT a good way to go. Less then 2 months from diagnosis to death.) Add in massive snow and wind storms, with power outages. My bedroom gets cold with no heat! Then there was the usual pre-Christmas rush, with pre-Christmas secrets and sewing projects. I made several sets of napkins and placemats, a nightie and a pair of boxers. The boxers were for me though. I didn't even bother putting up my tree this year, although I did put out my other Christmas decorations. My cold returned even worse than the first time around, probably due to lack of sleep, and I missed a day at work.

As Christmas approached, I was feeling better and my spirits were lifting - I was in the Christmas zone. I was really excited about most of the presents I had bought or made (especially the pantsuit I bought my mom). The week before Christmas, I went to my dad's side's family Christmas that I hadn't been to in 3 years. Much fun - although my 90 year great auntie didn't believe me when I said who I was. Not sure who she thought I was, but apparently I am not me. Christmas Eve at my mom's mom's house was really nice, although one of my uncles' family did not come because they were sick. My three year old cousin had "recovered" so his mom and he came. Christmas Day was great! Presents were lovely (books! happy books! A new hiking pack and sewing stuff!). The suit I bought my mom fit! My dad laughed at the note I included with the tool I had got him (he'll need it to fix something at my house). Our usual Christmas Day open house was nice and there were 10 people over for turkey dinner. Unfortunately, about 9pm that night, the PLAGUE that my little cousin had supposedly recovered from hit me. And my sister. And I later heard that it also got my parents, 3 uncles, 1 aunt, 2 cousins and my grandmother.... And by plague I mean a norwalk like virus. Ever had it? Then you know... If not, I don't wish this on anyone, not even my worst enemy. The only positive thing I can say - I didn't gain any weight over the holidays. The weird thing - that damn cold is back! It's a super-cold.

I have minor plans for the New Years, all depending on how I feel. I still get tired very very easily. I'm thinking dinner at my parents for their annual New Year's Eve dinner (cornish game hens, so yummy) and possibly followed by a house party if I'm still awake.

Best wishes to all of you for the New Year!