Back in the Saddle

I have a short break at work at the moment ... I'm waiting on some info for a grant I'm writing so I thought I'd write a quick update.

I don't know what to say about Mexico that would not be a cliche. The vacation was perfect and relaxing and exactly what I needed. There's a reason they film the Corona commercials in the area. I might post some pics later.

On the shuttle to the airport, I spoke to a 60-year-old woman who has lived in Chicago since her 20s and she told me if you plan your vacations well, it helps you get through the winters. (However, she also warned me that she has become less tolerant of the cold as she's gotten older. And she hates getting up early to shovel snow before work, but I digress.) The Mexico trip has helped tremendously in fighting the gray, cold days. And my gray, cold mood on those days. Having a tan in December doesn't hurt, either.

Add to that: Chicago at Christmas can be fun and we've been enjoying some nice parties, friends, gifts, etc. so right now we are enjoying la vida dulce. AND I bought a treadmill (will be delivered on Saturday) which should be a great help in keeping up my workouts in the winter. This will be especially helpful in the spring when I'm trying to wrap up the MFA, thesis, novel, etc.

I'm still writing the novel, but oh-so-slowly. I wish I were faster, but I'll get there eventually.

Back to the salt mines!