There’s a benefit to getting around. You learn things. You can learn about other people and their customs, and some of them are pretty interesting. Take Boxing Day. It’s today.

It’s a day of rest as we get ready for Christmas day and the little parties that go around it. And there’s time to think of the missing, of course, some of whom made all the parties possible.

Got my flu shot yesterday. Should have done so in October. I got sidetracked. But, better late than never. I even got the senior dose. Since I just had a bout of COVID I’m semi-protected on that front although the virus is proving highly adaptable with lots of mutations.

Did something yesterday I seldom do. Wrapped Christmas presents. Now, it’s not that I never wrap Christmas presents, it’s just that I procrastinate. Most years I would be wrapping on Christmas eve.

I’d be such a slug if left to my own devices, sitting home, reading, watching TV, piddling. But luckily, I’m covered up with friends who do things and often invite me along.

Kissed the kids goodbye yesterday and made the long drive home. I’ll see everyone again on the 23rd when we gather for the family Christmas.

It’s that time of year when memories seem to be the focus, especially for me. I made some yesterday.

I had about a week to remember what it was like in the early days of my marriage when space heaters were the thing, and nights were spent under mountains of quilts. It was a nice trip down memory lane, but I’m ready for my modern conveniences.

One of the things I appreciate about the task of this nearly daily blog, is the opportunity to adjust my psychic state as I start my day.

Every once in a while, you have to wrestle with the gods of the internet. I had my bout yesterday.

Wow. Simple task. Clearing space for the AC repair to get to the fan in the attic. Move a few things. Except one of the things is a little heavier than expected.

…life is full of little things that end--ball games, rounds of golf, songs, books, movies, meals, TV shows, relationships, concerts, the day, careers…

Here I am again, in Houston, babysitting the two little grandchildren. We had the place to ourselves last night. Their mother took the evening off to be with friends.

There are so many things rambling around in my head, I don’t know where to begin.

This past weekend was a weekend of doing. I ran hither and yon mostly in the pursuit of music and wine. A good combination if you have to chase something.

The other weird thing that happened yesterday was a nice, weird thing. I was walking in the attic, retrieving Christmas decorations. I walked by a group of shelves I’ve walked by for years. Something red caught my eye.

I had fun last night. I waited tables to help my friend, Sandi Mueller, cater a dinner at Texas Heritage Vineyard. We set the tables. Brought out the food. Cleared used dishes. Brought out more food. And then cleaned up at the end.

I’m starting to like my new epoch, my new era, my new period, call it what you will. I call it the Gaudalupian. If we’re looking for another analogy, it’s the blank canvas, the empty page.

Ah, Washington, DC. I love the place or at least the public face of the place. I’ve walked the grounds many times since the days of my youth. The Smithsonian, the National Gallery, the Mall, the monuments.

Good Morning. I’m back. And, as on the preceding trip, I learned something. I enjoy travel, as in flying.