I have to admit to being a bit of a Scrooge. I really don't like the hype, the commercialism and the drama. I withdraw like a turtle into my shell, and peek out occasionally to see if it is over yet.
Now that we no longer have kids at home, we don't much decorate, and I hate shopping with a passion year round, but especially at Christmas.
So two of my grandkids are under court guardianship, my daughter is in the hospital recovering from a pulmonary embolism. The daughter lost custody of her kids because she is a junky.
Under the circumstances it is extremely difficult to maintain a cheerful demeanor. I don't want to bring anybody else down.
Oh well. It snowed this morning and I got to see multiple people doing stupid things. Snow provides much amusement. First you have the people that have not a clue how to drive in the snow. They accelerate too quickly, jam on the brakes, take quick turns. The car ends up going straight when they want to turn. I saw two in my four mile commute this morning having intimate conversations with light poles.
Then there is the snow bully. They usually drive big four wheel trucks or SUVs. They tailgate, blink their lights, toot the horn. Their basic attitude is "Get the Hell out of my way, I'm coming through". They don't seem to realise that just because you have four wheel drive, it doesn't mean you can STOP any faster than homebody's old beat up jalopy that they only use to drive in the snow because it is no loss if they put it in the ditch. These guys usually end up in the ditch, quite frequently upside down.
The best advice I ever heard about driving in the snow is: "Pretend you have an egg taped to the bottom of you shoe(s). It is of utmost importance that you not break the egg.."
So I was driving the 2007 Chevy HHR with the Blizzak snow and ice tires. The tires are rated as the best for snow and ice. Front wheel drive, so the front end is always trying to go in the direction the tires are pointed. Slow to moderate speed, maintain your distance from cars around you, and Look out for the idiots.
The snow was falling and Christmas carols were playing in the radio.
I almost started singing along.
2 comments:
I'm sorry that your grandchildren are in state custody, but glad that your daughter is getting help. I pray that it will 'take' this time. Sobriety (in its varied forms) is a tough achievement, but worth it.
Chachi and I opted to forgo the usual 'presents' craziness this year, only purchasing things for Nooze. Nooze freaked (she is the Princess of Christmas), so we went with stockings only. It was still a relief.
That said, it's tough to get into the Christmas spirit when it's 79 degrees outside. I miss snow at this time of year.
I pray that this week is enjoyable for you and the Mrs., and that everyone stays safe and warm.
Are you making egg rolls or gumbo this year?
Hi Renn!
Good to hear from you.
That whole thing about getting over the things you can't change? Not one of my strong suits.
Today is my last work day this year, so of course it is draggin' by.
Christmas Eve I am expected to bring egg rolls.
Christmas Day I am making Pork Tenderloin in Cranberry Chutney.
Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Years.
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