[judy]

I finally have time to sit down and visit with y'all today! I've been so busy.

Christmas was lovely - it was just my daughter, SIL, the kids, me and my ex. We got there after the "Santa" gifts were open. (My oldest granddaughter found out about Santa - she's growing up!) We had a really nice, leisurely dinner and then opened our gifts. It was all very positive and fun.

I gave my daughter a card, and one to my SIL. Of course Jessie's was gushy. In Steve's, I wrote something about how much I appreciate him and how glad I am that he is able now to have me back in the family. A little sucking up can go a very long way - and I do appreciate him for taking care of my daughter and the kids, and for growing to the point where he could let go of whatever anger he had towards me.
He hugged me and whispered to me that he's glad I'm back in the family too.

Wow! Life can change on a dime!

The next day, my daughter and I met with her realtor, who I'm going to use. We saw a gorgeous condo in Oneonta. She's going to keep looking further downstate for me because, although this one is really beautiful, spotless, and I could build a nice life there, it's not exactly what I want. We shall see.
Sometimes "you can't always have what you want, but you get what you need."
I have an idea of what I want - what will really happen - who knows?

Thursday was the day they were getting their new Malamute puppy. I decided that between Christmas, condos, being there 3 times in the past month, and so on, it was time for me to go home! Long story - I ended up staying the day while they drove to Newark Airport for the new dog, but I left Thursday night.

I really needed to be alone. I was feeling scattered and I'm usually very centered. So, I've been resting and am happily back to myself again.

I took no pictures (except of the new puppy)- so if you look at the post of my Thanksgiving dinner table pictures, give or take a few guests, they look exactly like the Christmas dinner table.