It's that time again and can you believe it, I'm writing a Christmas letter for the third year in a row! For me this year has been crazy and filled with change. I have never been much for change but 2005 has been quite a different year. So much has happened that I hardly know where to start. So let me begin with where I'm at now and then work back through the year.
I recently moved to the lovely city of South Lyon, Michigan after residing in my Birmingham apartment for over eight years. South Lyon, for those who are unfamiliar is located about ten miles north and a bit east of Ann Arbor. I reside in a very nice one-bedroom apartment on the south edge of town. It's 800 square feet, has all the amenities I require plus a balcony and is pet friendly. South Lyon is a really cool place - it's small (about 3.5 square miles) but has a lot going on. I have everything I need within a mile or so but there is still a small town feel. Of special note is the fact that that South Lyon is well saturated with take-out pizza restaurants, which as you all know is crucial to my well-being.
In June I started working at the University of Michigan as a technician in the electronics lab of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science building. This opportunity was given to me by a great friend, Brian and has been a huge change for the better. After easing into my new job for a few months at part time hours while still working at Kroger, part time as well, I finally ended my eleven and a half year tour of duty with The Kroger Company and went to full time at the university. This was a big step for me and involved some difficult decisions but I am comfortable with my choices and happier than I have been in a long time. I am especially happy to be out of the crowded area I used to live in. I really like my new job, I'm learning a lot and working in a field that much better suits me.
Some of the most noteworthy changes in my life this year involve my girlfriend, Lisa. We met online in January and after getting off to a hesitant start, developed a serious relationship in a fairly short time. We understand each other and love each other more and more as time goes on, which is why it was so unfortunate that we broke up shortly before I moved. We had a lot of stress in our respective lives at that time and we have come to understand much about relationships and ourselves that we had not previously. After a couple of months away from each other we started talking again and wound up getting back together shortly before Thanksgiving. We have been seeing each other on weekends and have been working on the problems we have encountered in our relationship. I think we can have a happy life together and I know Lisa feels this way also.
I still have my three kitties: Smokey, Coal and little Jackie - not so little anymore, actually! They are doing well and have adjusted to the new apartment. Coal is about the same. Smoke is still hanging in there like a champ despite her health problems. Jackie is busy getting into trouble - her latest and most fun game is destroying the cute little Christmas tree Lisa and I set up a few weeks ago… My parents are both doing well and so are their pets, except for poor Murphy who has recently been diagnosed with cancer. He is currently OK but the writing is on the wall for him. He is such a good dog and it pains my heart to know he probably doesn't have much time left. I've never seen a happier dog, and I know that my parents will ensure his happiness and comfort for the rest of his days. My thoughts and prayers are especially for him this holiday season…
Money is very tight for many of us this year, but I believe in the true meaning of Christmas. I guess that this is a bit different for each of us but for me it's about kindness, sharing and love. You are all very special to me and I share this letter with you as my most precious gift. I am truly happy this holiday season and wish to share my joy with you. You have all helped me and been there for me during good times and not so good times. I thank you, and wish you all the very best this holiday season.