A Christmas Message

Christmas again? It comes around so fast, it seems.

It's been a pretty hectic and unpleasant year for me in the latter half, both personally and for this blog; just when I'd think things were sorted out and going okay, something else would strike.

However, recent events have reminded me of the proper perspective. I very nearly lost someone very close in my family, and it's been a nightmare few weeks. I won't concern you with details, but suffice to say that their recovery has been nothing short of miraculous; when doctors tell you that "death is a best-case scenario", hope is in short supply. I don't talk about my faith here, because that's really a private thing for me and not a topic for this blog, but the fact that my family member not only recovered but recovered to about 90% of how they were (from basically "gone") is an incredible and wonderful gift no matter what you personally believe, divine intervention, the experimental medicines given, or something else entirely. I don't know how much longer I'll have them, and the road is still a long one, but I am grateful for any extra time we have.

Still, if the recent 'Not-End of the World' has shown us anything, it's that none of us know how long we have each other. Whether the cataclysmic end of all life on this planet or a sudden and unexpected illness or accident to someone we care for or even ourselves, we need to treasure every moment we have with those we love.

But for today, enjoy the holiday celebrations, but make sure you take the time to tell those you love how you feel. Rather than stress about presents or dinners, argue about long-past family issues or other trivial things, spend time with them. Love them. Nothing lasts forever.

Personally, I wanted to take the time to say thank you to my readers and especially my long-time fans and friends for your thoughts, prayers and support in this difficult time. You know who you are (and how slack I often am at staying in touch and juggling "real-life") but you're all so special and appreciated by me. I was thinking the other day of those old friends long gone, either passed away or simply vanished into the mists of the internet, and I again think of how we should enjoy each others' friendship while we can.

I am officially "back in action" as of today, despite the holiday chaos, and look forward to - I hope - finally getting back to the dozen half-written posts I began in my attempted reboot of this blog a month or so ago (trust me, they're all saved and coming!). Thanks to those who've stayed with me and waited patiently; I hope I can make 2013 a better year for this blog and its content than 2012.

I hope you all have a fantastic holiday season, however you celebrate. And remember to behave yourselves, fellow brats... or be on the lookout for those who aren't, if you're the keeper of the household 'Naughty or Nice' list yourself!

Merry Christmas!

Cheers,
Banjo