Mom and I had a quiet Christmas. I woke up late, but we went to breakfast down the street at the IHOP. It was crowded, but there wasn't a wait for us since a lot of people were just leaving. So I guess it worked out that we didn't get there until after 9. After we ordered, Mom told me that she realized Dad was the one who liked to celebrate the holidays and that she relied on him to push her to get things done. She said she's been using his passing as an excuse to not do anything around Christmas time, but not anymore.

We had a good talk. Last Sunday's sermon spoke to her. The pastor talked about how the angels were always reminding those they approached, "Do not be afraid!". When God enters our lives, there's often change and, in our eyes, disruption. But there's no need to be afraid. My mom knows that she's in a good position in life: no responsibilities, good health and mental condition, she can do whatever she wants. I'm leaving her two books to read. The book I just finished "On Becoming Fearless...in Love, Work and Life" and "Left to Tell - Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust". Both about strength, courage and faith from a woman's point of view.

As a woman who hasn't depended on any man for very much or for very long (except as a kid), it comes natural for me to rely on myself and push myself through unknowns. Of course, I need other people as resources and to help me do things, but I will try my best to do most things. It's a contrast to my mom who now has to learn how to be independent after having been married for 48 years. I imagine it must be scarey. But there's a whole world out there and I'm glad to see her venturing out.

She started an aquatics class at the Multi-generational Center because one of the ladies she bowls with suggested it. So since Dec. she's been going and is already feeling stronger. Her bowling is getting better and she says her balance is better. A few months ago, she started practicing bowling with her left hand and last week she said she bowled a 140! That's better than me when I bowl right handed! I guess I'm impatient with her when I see her sitting around all day watching Korean DVD's, but she is getting out more and watching less these days. She's doing quite well for a 70-year old. She only is taking medication for high blood pressure now. And I think she'll be able to get off it with the extra exercise she's doing and if she watches what she eats.

I told her that I want to get a cat next year and she made that face, but is ok with the idea. As long as the cat doesn't go in her room. I may put in a little pet door going to the garage and put the catbox in there.

Hawaii vs. Georgia at the Sugar Bowl. My aunt and cousins are going to the game! They are hardcore fans. Even though UH did well this year, I don't hear much about them in the news here. But those HI folks bought up those tickets so quickly.

I'm doing ok with my football picks. So far, I've picked 116 wins and 114 loses (I'm trying for the Fiddle in the Middle - 50/50). Last year I won $250. I don't think it'll be as much if I get it this year.

The new LV slogan will be "Your Vegas is showing" ??...not replacing the "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas", but just another campaign. I guess the idea behind it is bringing your experience in Vegas back to your home town. We'll see how popular that one becomes!