Arrived

November has been quiet for a couple of reasons, not the least of which being the massive strain of work I am fighting. Six classes is too much, too exhausting, and too much grading! I have a week off, which is much needed and well-earned.

In other news, you can now find Lost and Philosophy: the Island Has Its Reasons in bookstores everywhere, as of today. A great birthday present (because really, everything that happens within one week on either side of November 26 counts as a birthday present).

Thanksgiving this year will be spent with my folks, brother, and grandma. Always a good spread of food, and of course good company. AV has perfected the brussels sprouts cooking (with bacon and high heat), and they're excellent. While I generally pride myself on being an adventurous eater, one thing (among a few, really) that I cannot abide is turkey. For some reason, I have never liked it. So I make my thanksgiving dinner from side dishes, which are aplenty - the aforementioned brussels sprouts, rice pilaf, jello with fruit in it, rolls, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and - the piece de resistance - green bean casserole.

I'm a real grinch about holidays (and here's a brief explanation of why), but I do love getting together with family and friends to sit around and eat, drink and visit. I love the visiting.