The end of 2009 - finally

This past week we took Caryl's mom to 'las Noches de la Luminarias' , an event at the botanical gardens where they line the pathways with luminarias, and have musical groups singing while you partake of the grounds. That was about the only positive for the week.

As a final insult to me, the past week since Christmas has added more grief to my life. First, the day after Christmas I contracted a sinus/bronchial infection which is still hanging on to this day. This forced 3 days off work sick as a dog, and has embattled my stamina and spirits. Then, I found out late Sunday night a relative had suddenly passed away, further dimming my holiday spirit. Thanks to my other relatives for keeping up to date as to the details of her passing. My illness was too much to try and overcome, so I was not able to be there for her funeral today. Kay, may you rest in peace. As a final slap in the face, MIZZOU produced a lackluster effort and lost their Texas Bowl game to Navy 35-13. So much for any NYE festivities this year.........

All in all, it is a year I never care to repeat, from the accident, to Caryl's breast cancer, to the previous paragraph's transgressions. 2009 - I am sick of you, and glad that you are gone!!!!!!

To all, I hope for a you a happy and prosperous New Year.

Happy Holidays

A quick post here to say hello and Happy Holidays to all! I continue to progress slowly - much too slowly - but do see some signs of progress. I can actually walk around now without the boot as I see fit. It feels good to not have that clunky thing on, but does not take long for me to feel the effects of that lack of support around my ankle. This has been a VERY slow season for me, as I usually do not feel like doing much by the evening hours due to soreness. So no holiday parties to show pics of this year, and I had to postpone my Xmas Eve open house for yet another year :(



Caryl's mom has been in town since Thanksgiving to help her through the last stages of her chemo treatment. The final one was Wed. December 9 - YEAH !!!! Now at least she can start the healing process. They invited me over for a lovely Thanksgiving dinner, and plan to do the same for Christmas, for which I am grateful . Speaking of food, a friend from back in KC sent me an emergency shipment of Kansas City BBQ (thanks Rog!). Caryl, her mom, and I enjoyed the balmy winter weather here yesterday (temps in the 70s) and I prepared that. We then went out for a little drive last night to look at Christmas lights around the valley.

If you are traveling for the Christmas holiday, please be careful so as to return safely home - Merry Christmas !!