Ringing in the New Year

2009 was sort of like this picture; Part of the time I was smiling like Ange and Ciera, other times I was grumpy like Trot, and a various points I just closed my eyes (or covered them up like Rakes) and just waited for the bad stuff to roll on by.

I work in retail, so national recessions aren't really conducive to good sales. But somehow we managed to make enough to meet all our commitments each month, even though Ange didn't go back to work until August.

Even though I have 3 insane children, we made absolutely no visits to the ER (close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades), they didn't give me a stroke, and somehow I managed to con Ange into staying married for another year, our 17th.

I got to go to Boston again, meet one of my closest friends in Jr, and watch virtually every game the Red Sox played. I've got both of my parents still with me, I've got my health (physically anyway) and I've been blessed with a family I never thought I'd have and definitely don't deserve.

Hayes, JB, and Amy all came to visit, I got to catch one last ball game with Mr. Andy, and when I go to sleep tonight I'll have heat in my house, food in the fridge, and a good woman to cuddle up with.

All in all? 2009's been a pretty good year.

Here's to 2010 being even better.

And to anyone who happens by this little corner of the world every now and then?

Happy New Year. I hope the upcoming year brings you more joy, health, and prosperity than you know what to do with.