A Fine Time

The first day of 2011, also my last full day in Key West, was a fun one. Lunch by the sea, enjoying margaritas and the sunset on the rooftop, a good movie (The King's Speech) at a beautiful, old-fashioned movie palace, and a late dinner of Thai food. When I get back home, I'll post all manner of tales and photos.

When I get home ...

I'm ready. I spent ten hours with my friend today and that's too long. I miss my cats, I miss my home, I miss my alone time.

He's been nothing but delightful and gracious. It's not him, it's me. I have lived alone too long.

I just wish I could get home without flying.

Saturday 9 -- From my hotel room

Completing this meme in bed, on a laptop, because it makes me feel borderline productive as I try to really get started this first full day of 2011, and this last full day of my Key West vacation.

Saturday 9: Do Ya

1. Do ya love New Year's Eve? What did you do? (Or if you arrived here early, what are your plans?) I don't love New Year's Eve because it's one of those events that never lives up to expectations. But I did have a nice time last night. Big dinner here at the hotel, wandering around the rooftop bar so we could enjoy a view of the entire island, and singing along with an eclectic and upbeat (if not overwhelmingly talented) little jazz-pop quartet at a wine bar.

2. What’s something nice you did for someone else this year? I worked hard at being supportive once my oldest friend made the decision to move to Los Angeles. I helped her pack, lent her the money for the security deposit on her new apartment, and flew out to spend her birthday with her.

3. Who do you wish could find their inner spirit to become more comfortable in their life? The aforementioned oldest friend. I suspect that she hasn't improved her life by relocating, she just moved her problems 2000 miles to the west. I do hope I'm wrong.

4. What’s the best thing to inherit other than money? Good genes! As I age, I realize how big a role heredity plays in health.

5. How many members of your family not living with you did you see on Christmas Day? None. My mom, sister and brother-in-law, niece and nephew celebrated on Christmas Eve.

6. When spending time with family, how long after you arrive do you begin to feel "antsy" about being there too long? It comes and goes in waves.

7. Is your family more likely to have pleasant discussions or heated arguments during a big meal? Do you join in or quietly listen in? Neither. My sister is very good at sending out subtle jabs that just leave me feeling hurt and/or uncomfortable.

8. Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas? What one thing that you didn’t get would you like to have received? I still believe I need Bert the Farting Hippo, just like the one Abby hugs whenever she feel vulnerable on NCIS.

9. What’s one area of your life you really improved this year? My pets' health. We have an established vet we can count on, and that is good news.