Let's take a look at this past summer. Shall we?

Two vacations. Both long. Both started with a wedding. I hate weddings. Still do. May never go to another one. First vacation was full of doing nothing but exercise and relaxation. Fun fun fun. Second vacation involved too much driving but discovered many things that will make the future exciting. Overall, I had a good time on both.

Work was work. It had its moments both good and bad. I did make a promise to myself to focus more of my energy on things that matter rather than work. I think I am getting there. There have been some bizarre moments. Like the Thursday before this Labor Day Weekend. Conference called into the Regional Offices to be told that my Regional superior has been relieved of her job. Meeting tomorrow to determine future and direction of the department. Not replacing her until next year. Tons to think about. Still got a raise though. Totally bizarre.

My husband is my beacon. Nothing centers me more than he does. He appreciates my vindictive idiosyncratic neuroses. What exactly did I do to deserve this man? I don't know. I could not ask for more. At the end of the day, he makes me laugh. Loud and proud.

Spent the Labor Day Weekend with my parents. At least I thought it would just be them and an uncle and aunt. Wrong. I was happy to spend time with Mom and Dad. I think I love them more than ever. My Mom has really become more understanding of who I am and what makes me tick. My father has become old. He has settled well into retirement. But in a good way. I feel that he feels he has earned this rest. I hope some day, I feel that way.

I did leave my relatives house a bit sad. After this weekend, I have decided to never go back. I have almost little in common with them. Nothing I do interests them and vice versa. I can't have an intelligent conversation with them. I tried again this weekend. Nothing. Nada. I came close to two arguments. Stopped out of respect for my parents. So, out of respect for my parents, I am never going to socialize with my relatives. My parents will visit me here, along with my sister, and that will be it. If I never speak to my relatives, it will be ok. Sad. But the alternative is not something I want to deal with.

So, to sum it up: long & productive vacations, workforce reduction, happily married & love my parents, hate my relatives. I think I've covered the spectrum. Hopefully Fall/Winter won't be quite as dramatic. Later.  ¶ 10:33 PM