Because Jenny says I hafta.

1. I’ve noticed recently that I horribly overuse the words actually and though.

2. Signs that I have been distracted this semester: a) we are already out of the local, organic garlic because I forgot to order a couple of pounds more when it was available and b) I am just now getting into the pumpkin ale.

3. But I have not necessarily fallen down on the cooking. Things I made for the first time this semester: apple butter (two batches, the second of which marked my inaugural venture into canning), hominy (not including the lye process, just from dried instead of from a can), blueberry compote (easy peasy), and chile verde (still in progress). I’m fairly sure there were a couple of other things as well.

4. Speaking of which, snow storms are apparently an impetus for Mexican food. So far we've had chorizo burritos and chile verde. Tonight is pozole.

5. I am rather amazed by how emotionally honest I’m willing to be lately, and how much importance I’m starting to place on that policy.

6. Next year, the new camera and I are going to throw down until I win.

7. Ten days, a big round of grading, and then I’m done. Last night, while we were watching the 4 1/2 hour director’s cut of Until the End of the World, it occurred to me that this was the first December 1st in our relationship that such an evening has even been possible. Every other year, the holidays have been consumed with seminars and exams right up until the 20th or so.