Half a year

Six months ago today I joined the college where I now work. Half a year--hard to believe! The change in environment continues to delight me most each and every week. I remain five-fold, at least, busier now than I was over on Bay Street, but the responsibility I have is reward that offsets that. Simply, I continue to love the place and many, many of the characters that make up the place.

One thing I've noticed--now that I'm not attached at my job to Toronto's underground shopping complex--is I have done absolutely no Christmas shopping yet! Despite that minor stress the spirit is really taking hold this year and I'm even feeling a bit giddy at the prospect of waking up in my own home on Christmas morning for the first time since what I'm guessing has got to be the '80s. Among the highlights of my Christmas experience happens this weekend -- PJ and K are hosting their annual Christmas party that includes the uber elderly and the just barely born -- and everyone in between. At some point the piano is played (very well) and a (beautiful and beautifully decorated for the holidays) house full of people is filled with the singing of Christmas carols. I love to belt 'em out with a voice that at any other time of the year would draw threats from the talent Gestapo. PJ also belts 'em out, but he has vocal talent. Anyway, in the few years I've attended it has become one of favourite holiday traditions.

And my best friend Kel had her baby (more that just a bit early) as a wonderful holiday gift. The wee lass, Maya Rose (how lovely is that name!) and her mom are healthy despite the prompted delivery. Kel is just such a great mom it is just a joyous thing knowing she will have such a loving influence on two wee'uns (Maya joins brother Noah). Sigh, I shoulda had kids... Although it's more fun to simply spoil friends' kids. Congrats Kel (and Daddy Dale too, of course!).

(Oh, and I'm hoping for a Christmas miracle -- that blogger actually publishes this!)