Making butter cookies out of crumbs. . .

I guess I should be a little embarrassed that I disclosed the fact that I blubbered over my fallen Christmas tree. However, I am sure the most sensible of you realize that my little "breakdown" was over much more than ornaments. Although, that did, in itself, cut pretty deep. And without sharing all of the details, yet again, our holiday gets more complicated, more difficult and less palatable each time the phone rings.

That being said, we are counting our blessings and instead of including yet another post explaining my dread of all things holiday and family- oriented, let's talk about some good stuff going on.

In an effort to escape the hustle and bustle a bit, Cynical and I are going to turn a little family reception into a full-fledged get-away. The weekend prior to Christmas we'll be heading to Louisville for an early morning brunch; afterward we're getting together with a close college buddy for lunch and that evening we're staying at a great, old historic hotel downtown. It features a billards room frequented by Al Capone and was the backdrop for F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby". Big hopes it will be fully decorated for Christmas. Big hopes to eat at one of the cool downtown eateries and maybe even do a little shopping. Thoughts on yarn shopping in Louisville?

I have actually finished my Christmas cards. I can't believe it. I started by doing just a few each evening and suddenly I stamped the last one. Is it too early to mail them?

This weekend we'll be traveling north to visit some of our favorite folks. We're excited, we're ready to go, we will be there soon. Word has it there will be warm soup, great company and maybe a late night or two.

Last night we ordered take-out Chinese food. I am not sure what it was about that little container of rice and chicken, but for some reason, to me, it's the best meal I've had in weeks. It really hit the spot. I'm not sure why I am sharing that with you, except to say that it was so darned good.