I generally look forward to Christmas being over, and this year was not an exception. I like the break from work, but otherwise I don't like much about the holiday. Getting together with friends or family is great, but all the other stuff seems overblown.

I did get to see Trisha together with all her family on Christmas day, it was really sweet. They exchanged lots of gifts and I even picked up a few gifts in the crossfire. I really should make an effort to give gifts, but shopping at this time of year feels especially hellish.

I had Christmas dinner at my cousin Bryan's house with a few other people. We enjoyed a lot of good wine, conversation, really great food and I made my first salad. It was a fun evening.