Happy Holidays

        This is going to be a short one. I know that statement is shocking. By now, those who drop by here regularly, a small but intelligent audience, are used to my lengthy diatribes on whatever happens to be crossing my mind at the time. That is not by design. It is merely my nature. I don't intend, upon sitting down to write, to expend as much as two thousand words or so on the subject of baby food or the cleanliness of my floors, it just seems to happen. That's the way I am. Long-windedness and waxing philosophical are character flaws of mine. Heck, this one's over a hundred words already and I haven't even said anything yet. The point is, I'm still wrapped up in enjoying the holidays so I'm busy with a lot of other things, (fun things), and in no real mood to write. So please forgive me my shortness here.

         Christmas is over and a good time was had by all. I was finally able to get into the Christmas spirit a few days before, primarily by writing the last post "Here Comes Santa Claus". Thinking about the meaning of Christmas while writing that post did the trick, along with finding a new sewing machine under the tree.

         Kiley had her first Christmas and, as expected, it was a success. She got everything she wanted, or at least everything she would have wanted if she were old enough to desire particular things. She got some outfits and a soft baby doll from me and "Uncle Tom", and so many other presents from parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends of the family, etc. that they can't be counted. This being her first Christmas makes her a celebrity in our family, so she was showered with love, attention, and gifts. She will remember none of it and we will never forget it.

         Since Kiley's mom is a teacher and doesn't have to go back to work until after New Years, I have another whole week off. Hooray! I'm planning on taking Kiley out for the day New Years Eve, just for fun and to give her mom a real day off. Then it will be New Years and the holiday season will be behind us. It comes so quick and goes so fast, which, I suppose, is the nature of wonderful things. The cold dark days of winter lie ahead of us, the bleakest time of the year. I'm not looking forward to it except maybe to taking Kiley out in the snow. That will be an experience for both of us. I'm already pining for March to go out like a lamb. Give me spring!

         The only thing I am looking forward to this winter is Kiley's birthday in January. What an event that will be. Another excuse to shower her with love, attention, and gifts. This coming year will be filled with so many milestones for her. I am really looking forward to it all especially because somewhere along the way Kiley will begin to talk. That will be truly amazing for me and everyone associated with her because we don't really get to know them until they can talk and express whatever ideas they have. Soon enough we are going to find out what is going on in that little head of hers. I can't wait to hear what she has to say. I hope everyone is having as great a holiday season as I am. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

Nan