The cross-eyed bear

2007 recap. As I look back on what was undoubtedly the single worst year of my life, I am reminded of the words of my mentor and spiritual advisor, Mick Jagger, who once said, "you can't always get what you want..." Truer words were never sung. Then again, I have to remind myself of all the truly wonderful blessings I have received during the year. In spite of my little stroll through hell, there were some absolute bright spots. So, I finish up the year wiser, fatter and deeper in debt...but thankful for my family, friends, coworkers and cats...glad that I have a great job and live in a peaceful home. To continue to quote Sir Mick, "...sometimes you get what you need." And that's that. Happy new year everyone. 

Seasons Greetings

A picture of me with my lovely children in a winter wonderland, courtesy of the magic of photoshop. It's getting more and more difficult to get everyone together these days. Everyone has a life that no longer revolves around ME!! My darling Bert fixed dinner last night, her own creation--orzo and spinach with teriyaki tofu. Excellent. We scaled back this year. No presents, but Miguel still got me the director's cut of Blade Runner. I just love that movie. It's a quiet day around Chez Nicholson. I was hoping for snow, but no such luck. A fake picture will have to do for now.

Merry Christmas, ya'll !

My boss once again opened up her home for our annual holiday party and lasagna fest. Besides the usual suspects, we were joined by Zoey (the cocker spaniel), Sadie (black lab), Izzy (yorkie) and a yellow lab puppy, whose name escapes me at the moment. Sorry about that. These memory lapses are annoying. The boss LOVES to decorate so her home was just dazzling. She scaled back this year and only put up 13 trees. I tried to get some pictures but they didn't turn out. So, I've included a pic of the office tree, also courtesy of the boss. We got a lot of grief about our lime green and hot pink tree, but I thought it looked great. I am so very blessed to work for such a wonderful manager. And my coworkers are just the best. I couldn't ask for a better work situation. Happy holidays to all and may the new year bring peace and joy.

Holiday Party #2

I'm a member of the local chapter of the AAPC...it's a work-related thing...don't worry about it. Anywho, they had their holiday party last Saturday at Jonny Carino's. The food was good, a little heavy on the pasta maybe, and we were kind of squeezed into a small room, but I had a nice time. Here's a picture of me, looking extra gray for some reason, and my coworkers, Pooh and Flossie. I've got 3 more parties to attend this year, plus we will probably go to Terry Anderson's annual birthday party on Christmas night. My social calendar is full. It's exhausting being so popular.

I heart NY

My cousin Keiko and her husband Tak were visiting over the weekend. It was so nice to see them again. They've been living in NY for the past 18 years or so. The rest of mom's family lives in Japan. Mom recognized Keiko and spoke to her in Japanese. Keiko always brings Japanese food, which is a big treat for mom.