8PM CHRISTMAS EVE: In Costa Rica, the fireworks have been going on for about 3 hours now and will continue till probably just after midnight. With our view of the entire central valley, it was pretty amazing. We see nothing, hear nothing here... I miss the BOOM a little, yeah. I miss my Costa Rica friends a lot, you bet. Not to mention my Key West friends!

But, honestly, I'm so happy to be right here, sitting in this chair with my family in arm's reach. It could be anywhere in the world. Thank you for being here with me!!! Yep, this is a really good Christmas.

May your dreams be merry and bright. And WARM!

Love, S.