post-Christmas post

Vacation is very, very nice. So are the holidays, although they always surprise me a little. Even though we have a lot of traditions and holiday routines in our family (especially around Christmas time), there are nothing like these annual marking stones to remind us how much things have changed. This is the first Christmas I've had where I've really felt like a visitor to my parents' house; I've always been living there or staying there for a few weeks in December, instead of just a few nights. I still think that one of the weirdest things about college and post-college life is navigating where "home" is and what home means--once you move away, it's never exactly the same. My sisters are also getting older, and much more strong and beautiful and capable, and it seems like all of the cousins who are my age (there are several) are getting married and buying homes. One even has a daughter. These changes happen gradually around me, but always seem to catch up with me all at once. I wonder if it's any worse for me than it is for most people since graduate school is so insulating--sometimes I get so caught up in reading and writing and grading that I forget to look up and take in the world around me. December is a good time to try to catch up with that world.

Speaking of reading, I find that it is really unappealing to me right now. I used to love reading for hours and hours over vacation, but the idea of books -- even books I think I really want to read -- makes me feel exhausted. I hope this won't last very long; there are only so many blogs to read and DVD's to watch instead. And there's really nothing that compares to getting lost in a really good book.

This week should be exciting; I get to start planning a new quarter with new challenges (reading for exams!) and a new course to teach. I'll keep you updated as the drama unfolds (pun totally intended).

Oh, and this is a little belated, but I thought it was entertaining. Make sure you check out the bonus scenes!