My presents are bought and wrapped. I've done most of my cooking and baking. (Some things can't be done ahead of time.) My cards have been sent or given out - I'm one to personally deliver as many as I can and use this as an excuse to visit people. I am almost done cleaning the house - a basic swipe of the bathroom and a once over the rest of the house will do just fine. So...I am just about ready for Christmas.

My oldest daughter is on her way up from Alabama. I can't wait until she gets here. My youngest can't make it in from Nova Scotia and I'm trying not to dwell on this. I know we will Skype on Christmas morning. Not quite the same, but it will have to do. I'm hoping that next year we all will be together.

My plans for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day have been finalized. I can now sit back, wait a little and enjoy! I let someone put a damper on the holidays last year and I'm not going to allow myself to let that happen this year. Life's too short. My family is too important to me.

I'm sending out well wishes and a Happy Holidays to everyone. Take time to enjoy.