Slow day as things go, but it is the winter solstice, and cold has settled in—the natural slowing down of things. It’s also National Look on the Bright Side Day, which I usually try to. Today that means looking on the bright side that the days will be getting longer for the next six months. It’s also Blue Christmas Day, in support of those for whom Christmastime is not a happy occasion. I’ve had a few blue Christmases, like the first when I stayed at home in Montana and didn’t spend it with my parents. On that Christmas Eve I went skiing in Glacier National Park at midnight by myself under a full moon. It was windy, cold, and snowy. I heard the distant howl of wolves—or was it just the wind? It was certainly an experience to remember. The next day I spent with friends; in general, quiet but I was missing my family and family traditions.

It’s also National Short Girl Appreciation Day, one I wholly support from my five-feet-one-inch viewpoint. Having been born into a family of munchkins, I’ve never been able to reach the third shelf in a cupboard or sit in an adult-size chair with my feet touching the floor while simultaneously having my back fully supported without slouching. Maybe that’s why my posture is poor? I guess we shorties can’t get enough appreciation because tomorrow is National Short Person Day. I was in junior high school when Randy Newman’s song about short people having no reason to live hit the airwaves. My friends thought it was so funny to sing it to me (hil-effing-larious). No grudge.

Worked from home finishing the year-end team newsletter, had two visits from contractors, who tackled a few items on the punch list, and a visit from the delivery guys with the couch we bought at the estate sale on Sunday. I’m not looking forward to re-arranging the living room to make room it and the new chair, but I know I’ll like the result when it’s done. This evening, Hubby and I lost control of our senses for a short while, having decided to go to Wegman’s grocery store right as people were leaving work to go home. Three small bags and two hundred dollars later I was enjoying my Wegman’s prepared meal of Peruvian chicken, roasted brussels sprouts, and baby potatoes. I know not to shop when I’m hungry, but that doesn’t stop me doing it. Besides, it was my only outing for the day, and I can’t resist a Wegman’s meal. I almost feel sorry for people who don’t have access to Wegman’s grocery store (no, I’m not getting paid to say “Wegman’s” multiple times in this blog).