winter in the shark tank

Well, today, in case you didn't know, is the Winter Solstice, so how could I not post? The longest night of the year has only really started, and already I have a few things plaguing my mind.

1. A few weeks ago, I was asked to house sit for one of my neighbors. Not really thinking about it, I said yes, figuring it would be a good way to make a little money and get out of the house. Then I completely forgot about it, didn't go to their house to get my instructions (although I have house sat for them in the past). Today I let both of their cats outside, as per the note they left behind, and went to my cello recital. After I got back it had been 2 or 3 hours, so I decided to let them back in. The only problem? I can't find one of the cats. And it's freezing outside. Shit!
   
2. I had my very-first-ever-of-my-entire-life cello recital today! I played Away In A Manger as a solo, and then Patapan and Huron Carol on trumpet in a group, along with Silent Night, this time on cello. Confused yet? The worst part, besides my very out of tune B flat, the floor was slippery so my cello stand kept sliding across the floor, while I was trying to play. Ugh.
   
3. One more writing site for your perusal, Query Shark, a blog where Janet Reid, a highly opinionated agent who clearly knows her stuff, reads, edits, and reviews query letters sent in by readers. It's brutally honest, very informative, and hopefully leads to some success stories! Suffice it to say (oh my gosh, alliteration) I've become slightly addicted to it.
4. Happy Winter Solstice! Not only is tonight the longest night and shortest day of the entire year, but it's also the first day of Winter. Pretty hard to believe, considering how cold it's been, at least where I live! That, and a lot of cultures celebrate the New Year on either the Winter Solstice or Spring Equinox. Good idea!

Today is a sad way, in many ways. I love the Winter, don't get me wrong, and I love the Solstice, but it always makes me sad in the after today, the nights are going to start getting shorter... How is your Winter going--as of, say, 12:01 am this morning?

I'm pretty happy, actually. I've got a new story idea, and I've decided that this story I am writing one hundred percent for my own enjoyment. I will not think about it ever being published, winning any awards, or making me famous. No, I will not, and if I do then I will be forced to eat my own hands off. Interesting solution...

I hope your Winter goes well. I'm currently watching The National on CBC with the Top 9 of '09. The best part? I love Peter Mansbridge, and his sad lack of a chair. We should get him one for Christmas.