Christmas Wishes

 The boys are ready for Santa!

Last week I missed the next installment of Dog Diaries. I had too much wrapping and Christmas prep to get done. I try to get everything done early so I can relax and enjoy the next few days leading to Christmas.

I have one more present to wrap and a trip to the grocery store to get apples for the pies my daughter and I make as well as a bag of potatoes. After that, I'm free and clear for the week. We did our annual Christmas visit to my brother's on the weekend. We usually stop by on Christmas Eve, but someone has to stay home with Rambler (I'll talk all about his separation anxiety in a January post). My husband stayed home with the boys, while my daughter and I (and her boyfriend) got to visit with my brother, sister in law, and my eldest nice. My youngest niece wasn't feeling well, but we dropped off her presents at her house and saw her for a few minutes. My family is small, but we're a crazy bunch. Lots of hugs and laughter. When we arrived back home, my husband's eldest brother was visiting, so we got to see him for a bit too.

After I hit 'publish' on this post, I will be done with computer work until after the holidays. I have lots of reading to catch up on, and I need to get myself out of the design slump I'm in. My artistic creativity has taken a backseat to dog exhaustion and holiday prep, so I'd like to get back into my art.

As for the new year, I don't make resolutions. I just want 2024 to be better health-wise than 2023. This past year hasn't been great for my health. Migraines, dizziness, hearing issues, and lots of pain in my neck, back, and arm have been worrisome. But as we enter January and I turn another year older, I'm hoping 2024 is much better physically and mentally. 

I've retired from writing novels. They take too much time to write and publish and I'm not a marketing specialist, which you need to be these days to get your book in front of readers. I'm pondering another writing avenue, but it's just a thought at this point. I'll keep blogging in the new year. As well as my own posts, which will include the continued journey of dog life and my art work, I have a few guests lined up to fill in the days I'm too exhausted. I'm hoping to have posts on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so watch for those.

In closing my last post for 2023, I want to thank everyone who follows my blog and to the ones who occasionally stop by. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Season Greetings, and a Happy New Year. May your holidays be filled with much happiness and love. Chat with you in 2024!

My favourite Christmas card I designed this year.