red-nosed reindeer

Finally. Time to relax on my couch under my down throw, lights twinkling and glinting off the ornaments, TheDog snoring beside me. Perfect. Well, it would be if I could breathe.

The cold that has been circling finally caught up to me today. At least I can be thankful it waited this long. Until after my crazy weekend of holiday parties.

Our office party was wonderful this year. The boy went with me, and not only seemed to have a good time, but said as much. And my friends at work said they liked him, too.

The annual holiday party of a friend's parents halfway across town was a little daunting this year. The boy had to work and could not join me, and most of the younger crowd all now have kids. Despite my discomfort at being the only single person there, it was great to see people I rarely get to see.

Then my own yearly bash. Friends and family gathered around, eating good food and having a glass of wine. Every year I question why I place the added stress upon myself. So much to do with the holidays in general, why add to it with party preparations.

But Sunday evening, after the tree had its lights and decorations, after the stockings were hung by the chimney with care, after the candles were lit, and the first guests began to arrive, I knew why. It's because this time of year is to gather together with those you love.

It would only have been better if the boy could have gotten off work a little earlier. And if those that had caught the nasty cold before the party had been able to make it. But I'm happy it held off for me until today. Even if I'm beginning to look a bit like Rudolph, myself.