This morning was our annual staff Christmas breakfast. It was a wonderful spread, and I filled my plate. Feeling lucky, I bought $10 worth of raffle tickets -- didn't win anything, but I am okay with that -- my real purpose was to contribute. But then I did win something -- we all did! Our president announced that everyone was getting four extra days of vacation this year! That means a lot to me. I always use up all my vacation time, and I've already used a lot this year, what with the funeral and everything. Now I know I will have the time to go to Florida in February and help my son with his mammoth garage sale. And still might be able to take a day to visit my grandson in school -- and then go to Las Vegas in July!

It was payday, as well, so I paid my mortgage and Discover bill. Everything else is automated.

I also popped over to the campus coffee shop and bought a pastry and a $5 gift certificate for my student worker, whom I won't see again till the end of January. Sigh.

And last night I bought a lottery ticket. Only because I am going in with two other co-workers, and only for fun. The Mega-Millions jackpot is over $400 million.

I was mistaken that today was the day of our office party as well. That will be next week. So I didn't have to drive, thus saving gas, thus not having to make a dessert. It's all good.

Tonight we have a snow advisory. I hope it won't be too bad, because I really have to grocery shop, and tomorrow I really have to go to my grandson's concert (he's a Suzuki violin student -- too cute!) Plus, I have LOTS of laundry to do, but since that only involves a trip to the basement, I'm not too worried about that. Just hope the steps won't be dangerous.

I don't know what the temperature was today, but it felt downright balmy. (Not enough to melt the snow, however). I could take a winter like this, but they say the cold temperatures will return shortly.

Anyway, I really am full of cheer! It's been a great day and I'm looking forward to a great weekend! Hope everyone else is, too!