First Day of Winter

Today is the first day of winter. I saw somewhere that it starts at 11:47 a.m. Is that Eastern or Central time?

Today is also the first day of my new blog called Gene Notes in which I cover family research topics.

It'll Be a Redneck Christmas

No, I did not go out and buy the "Jingle Bells & Shotgun Shells" Christmas lights at Tractor Supply. Apparently they do not carry them anymore.

However, while hanging a suet feeder for the birds, I just happened to look across the street and saw that our neighbor was butchering a deer in his driveway. No #*(^! I guess the 26 people they'll have for dinner on Christmas day will have a surprise.

At least I HOPE it was a DEER hanging from that tree!

The Joy of Christmas Mail

Standing in the post office on Wednesday to mail Younger Daughter's Christmas presents from us and I didn't even consider that she'd have them all opened probably within 30 seconds of receiving them. Hey! It isn't Christmas yet! Not that it is a surprise. This daughter is known for snooping! Just wait till next year!

I love the Christmas cards I receive from distant family members each year. I even miss some of the newsletters. I really love getting the family pictures. They are duly scanned and linked to the appropriate family in my family genealogy.

Then there is the Christmas email from the Honda dealership to please come in for $10 off parts or service, or great financing on a new vehicle! Cards from insurance agents this year sport new names. I HATE when the insurance company arbitrarily decides who is going to get your business when someone retires.

I love getting cards from "old" friends, new friends, distant friends and family and close friends and family. I love the handmade one my Aunt in Holland, Michigan. So pretty. And the funny ones, cute ones and serious ones. Thanks for all of them!