Highlights

Just a "quick" update (I always start with the intention of brevity)...

Things are going well, overall. Matt found out his position won't be terminated after two years; in fact, it is going to expand and he'll probably get a larger territory and a raise. That gives us good peace of mind as we continue our efforts to start a family.

Today was my last day of work before Christmas break. This year has been so emotionally taxing. I have resolved to return to work refreshed after two weeks off. I have also resolved not to get too involved in my students' lives. I need to understand I can't save them. They need to start taking more personal responsibility for their own happiness and future. I don't want to hash out any gory details right now. Let's just say between suicide attempts, cancer scares, drug addictions, house arrest sentences, and court dates galore, my emotional reserve is cashed.

My plans for Christmas break? Well, this weekend the goal is simply to RELAX and HAVE FUN!!! Tonight we're staying in to watch the Hawks game. Tomorrow night we're meeting up with some friends at The Barley House for drinks.

Monday I have to go to St. Joseph's Hospital for an MRI of my neck (I got a 2nd opinion from a different orthopedic dr and he says it's actually my NECK that has been causing my back pain!), a whole body bone density scan, and blood work to see if I have arthritis. If I do have arthritis, as I suspect I do (it's either arthritis, lupus, or a food allergy!), I'll need to take baby aspirin daily when I get pregnant again to protect my baby. Whatever it is, it is an auto-immune issue and I need to be pro-active to prevent future miscarriages. I have totally eliminated diet soda from my diet, which has definitely reduced my flare ups. Then Monday night I am meeting up with a friend at Houlihan's for dinner.

Tuesday I am taking the Rover in for an oil change and a general check up. Then I plan to do my Christmas shopping...finally! I think I'll get bourbon and some boxers for Matt (we're keeping it light, to put money toward our CC's, to be in the best possible financial shape for a baby someday). I plan to get Kate (I'm her Secret Santa) some sweet treats, maybe a water bottle for the gym, a gift card to Express, and a magazine subscription of some kind. Not sure what to do for my parents...maybe a nice Yankee Candle Co candle and a personalized calendar.

We will be hosting Christmas Eve at our house. I think we'll be serving turkey, stuffing, potatoes of some type, and veggies. I also want to make something special for dessert. I am definitely not a baker, so I will keep you posted on my foray into the world of pastries! Should be interesting!

We'll be going to Matt's parents' house Christmas Day. More food and probably some board games, too.

The rest of my vacation is currently unplanned...and I like it that way! I predict a few visits to the bookstore to catch up on my gossip mags. I also plan to go to the theater to see some movies, since I haven't actually gone to the movies since The Time Traveler's Wife. I'd also like to work on the children's book I'm writing (my half-sister has agreed to be my illustrator!) and take in a few more Mary Higgins Clark novels. Maybe I'll even try a few new recipes, since I'll certainly have the time and energy.

Anyhow, that's the plan for the next few weeks. I haven't been too focused on my 101 in 1001. In fact, I'll have to scratch a few items off my list as a total FAIL (i.e. no alcoholic drinks except red wine...ha!). Maybe I'll take care of a few of those goals while I'm off. If I do, I'll be sure to post a recap here. That reminds me, I still need to post about the other items I already scratched off! Geez...I am so behind!

I will try to be more diligent in my blogging. It is a good release for me emotionally and mentally. I will aim to post an update at least 1-2 times per week.

I hope all is well with all my readers (all five of you! ;) Each of you, please "have yourself a merry little Christmas." "Deck the halls," and be sure to post all the sordid details on YOUR blogs!

Peace out,
Heather