Just when I think I've got everything covered for the holidays, I remember one more thing. As much as I love this time of year, I also hate this time of year. I think last year must have been easier because I was unemployed, and I could run out an grab a last minute gift when a store opened. Now, I attempt to go on my lunch break and end up standing in the longest line humanly possible to buy some cellophane bags for food related gifts (Michael's, I'm looking at you - if any store was ever in need of a "9 items or less" line, it's you). I'm not saying that I'd like to be unemployed again or anything, but it sure was nice to have all that time to do everything I need to do.

Things I still need to do: finish knitting some gifts, buy picture frames, bake mass quantities of cookies, wrap presents, attend a birthday gathering, attend a winter solstice gathering, and pack for 4 days of traveling back and forth between family members. When must all of this be done? By Friday.

I think next year, I'm going to simplify. Everyone gets booze. A bottle of wine, or some nice whiskey. Perhaps a six-pack of Belgian ale? I could certainly use some right now...