I get the impression that Christmas celebrations are now kicking into high gear.That's OK. I'm cool with all of it except for the bane of my existence, TRAFFIC.
I'm not talking about Traffic the band from the 1970's.
Traffic getting home from work yesterday was AWFUL. Then today, around 1:00, Michael and I were headed up I-85 and the traffic was crawling along, for no discernible reason. Usually on Saturday you don't have such issues heading out of town. I pictured Atlantans with family in northern states all fleeing the city at the same time..
I decided this year to plot and plan my Christmas baking, instead of just approaching it willy-nilly like I usually do. I like making cakes and making food for people. I'm making some pumpkin bread (which is more like cake), some cookies, and Ina Garten's Herb Dip for some folks. I think sometimes people get turned off by so many sweets, so savory may be a good the way to go - depending on the individual, of course.Some folks can't handle that much dairy. They're getting cookies or something.
I am pondering how to make some cookies for a friend's daughter who is allergic to chocolate. Mike and I went to Publix this afternoon and got two big bags of white chocolate morsels, along with sugar, flour, and all the other paraphernalia of baking. I looked for macadamia nuts and couldn't find any. I don't care for white chocolate, so it's hard for me to work up any enthusiasm for eating these cookies, but I want to do something special for the child. What a bummer to be allergic to chocolate. I am assured that she CAN eat the white kind...
I have been hearing an upbeat and lively Christmas song [God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen] by the oddly named Barenaked Ladies, and if you're in a foul mood, listen to it. Great harmonies. One of my fave Christmas ditties. Oh, and it's a medley with We Three Kings, almost forgot that, so really two songs..
You know the letter I published here a couple of days ago? I sent the Christmas letter to a relative that told my mother she was sorry that I must be feeling "low." I was sort of surprised by that. I wasn't actually feeling low; more like relieved. I got through 2011 with my health and my faith intact. I grieve for my daughter; I suspect that will never go away. But I am here. We are all OK. (even Alesia, despite her poor choices lately). We have our house. We have kind and beautiful friends and caring family members, and even terrific neighbors who are also friends. PEOPLE are what make my life bearable.
The year is almost over. I believe that 2012 will be better for me. I have to believe that, or I wouldn't be able to get out of bed in the morning.
I firmly believe that "When you're going through Hell, KEEP GOING."
I kept going.
I'm like the Energizer Bunny. Thanks for coming with me...
