So far, so good in Connecticut.

The drive was long, with a stop at a mall in central New Jersey to allow sprite to find an elusive gift (which was found, quite to her relief). So we rolled into town around 3:30 am on Saturday morning. A bit of a lie-in ensued, which was warranted.

We my up with our friend, Laura, for lunch yesterday, which was really great. She always has such wonderful stories to tell.

The presents are, save for a few, small exceptions, wrapped and ready to go. I did my wrapping while The Sound Of Music was broadcast on ABC, and I thought about my upcoming trip to Austria, which made me very excited (especially now that they have snow in the St. Johann im Pongau region).

I’ve had a chance to relax, which has finally allowed my shoulder pain to subside – there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a sound night of sleep.

And I did my charitable giving, to Toys For Tots and to John Kelly’s Children’s Hospital Campaign. Both are causes in which I believe, and that give kids a chance at happiness and health.

I also gave to the Humane Society of the United States and the Greater New Haven Cat Project. The latter has a special place in my heart, because we adopted Jeremiah and Posey from them back in 2002.

And although I’m not the least bit religious, I hope that this Christmas brings you joy, cheer, health and safety – whether you are Christian, Jewish, Muslim, wiccan, humanist or atheist.

Peace be with you.