Christmas "Break"

After having finished my final fall semester of undergrad, I am now enjoying my Christmas break...sort of. Possessing what my brother-in-law affectionately calls "hamster-on-the-wheel" syndrome, my inability to sit still and do nothing, I have of course planned the heck of out my month-long sojourn from school.

Almost immediately after I arrived home, I began helping my mom decorate, although this is partially because I was sad that I was not at home when most of the decorating took place, so my mom and sisters saved some for me. We made sure that the upper floor of our house was sufficiently decked out for the holiday by creating a scene of my mom's Father Christmas figurines on the mantle, along with adding my sparkly tree at the end of the hallway for a more glam touch, and a display of blue lights and ribbon wrapped around garland adorning the bathroom mirror, a nod to my dad's taste. We have been told that the house has never looked better.

I have also taken a job at the Assisted Living Facility behind us as a dietary aide for the duration of break. This is mostly because I have several upcoming trips this semester and would like to make sure that I have adequate spending money without leaving myself short with my regular expenses. The work is easy and for the most part, pleasant. Mostly I enjoy visiting with the residents, the majority of which are very interesting and enjoyable. I have the distinct feeling my part-time job will turn into over full-time hours very quickly, however, as it seems many of my co-workers have the tendency of calling off work given the opportunity. Oh well...at least it's more money.

I also just finished something I have very much been looking forward to, a visit to see Margaret and Nathan in Tinley Park. I got to spend time with Hecate and Hyperion, who I believe to be more comfortable around me now, even if it's only sitting on my feet under a blanket. Margaret and Nathan have a very cozy and welcoming little apartment, even though it is a touch on the small side. I very much enjoyed dinner with them and driving around looking at the Christmas lights. I will never forget the inflatable Snoopy on Sopwith Camel with rotating propeller inflatable and his little lighted runway, which was the highlight of the festivities, with the exception of the display put on by "Mr. Christmas."

Christmas is just around the corner now and I am very much looking forward to having the family together again, with the exception of Nate and Alicia. A day off of work will be nice as well, provided no one calls into work...