I had the pleasure of spending Christmas this year with family in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Every time I go there, I am struck by the tradition surrounding UM and the diversity of people the town attracts.  What a great place for my nephews and niece to grow up in!

Flying in from Tucson and changing planes in Chicago, I managed to avoid the worst of the storm that stranded a few hundred people just a few hours later.  Despite my good fortune, my checked bag didn't make it to the Detroit airport with me--of course, it was the one with presents for everyone in it!  Luckily, it arrived the next day and Santa Claus didn't have to write any I.O.U. letters.

Returning home, my flight out of Detroit spent over an hour on the runway because of fog & ice.  Catching my connecting flight in Chicago looked like a lost cause, but fortune smiled in the form of the airline holding the plane for another passenger and myself.  Whew!  Arriving in Tucson 5 minutes early...to a balmy 65 degree day with plenty of sunshine made me appreciate living in the Southwest.  The good weather we take for granted is a dream in winter for many in other locales. 

I love traveling and getting the opportunity to enjoy other people and places, but my home is in the Southwest by choice.  Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and looking forward to the new year.  Cheers!