Back to the Grind!

I am back at the grind. I know you may have wondered why I haven't been posting regularly over the holidays. Let me explain. I work for a university as a computer programmer/analyst. I literally sit in front of a computer(actually two)screens for 8 hours every day. When I get an opportunity to get away from them, I take it. Sitting in front of a computer screen while on vacation would be like a busman's holiday. I didn't post, I didn't work, I didn't surf, I didn't play solitaire, I literally stayed away from my computer.

But now it's back to work, and all the other things I normally do. I just finished wading through about 200 emails. Most of them junk. A few from friends, but few for work, since everyone else was off too.

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and that each of you have a wonderful New Year. I stayed denned up like an old bear for most of the time between the two holidays. My son had my vehicle since his met with an unfortunate demise Christmas Eve morning, so I didn't have too many options of any place to go.

My friend Jan came the 19th, and stayed til the 23rd. We had a great visit. Ran around a lot. And just had a wonderful time. I intended to make some pictures, but didn't even accomplish that. I'm planning to go see her in the spring, and I'm taking another friend that Jan has gotten acquainted with through me. Jan lives in the Smokey Mountains so spring should be absolutely beautiful.

We spent the Saturday night before Christmas with my step-parents. The Tuesday night before Christmas I spent with my children and their children. Then Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was spent watching tv and enjoying the quiet.

As much as I love people, I could totally live on a mountain away from everyone. And I say that knowing it's not going to happen and I can see my family any time I want to.

I also passed a milestone. I was 60 on the 3rd. My family gave me a surprise birthday party. We had about 30 family members and friends there. Got some good loot. Found out how devious my children are, and had a great time.

But now it's back to work, back in harness, back to the grindstone. And I'm already looking forward to the next holiday. Yes, that's me, just looking forward to time off and eventually maybe retirement. As much as I joke about work, I am thankful for my job. I know there are many people who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to illness. My job is a blessing.

Hope you are having a great Monday. Have you counted your blessing today? Pray for our country. Love one another.