Hola, 2009!

As many people look toward a "fresh start" from a bumpy year, my immediate concern is for a clear nose. I seemed to have brought back "little people" germs from Nome, which has blown into (pun intended) a full-out cold. But I've made it to work all week (sorry to my co-workers)! Luckily for Andy, he's congested and sounding funny as well. Let's hope we stay awake 'till midnight tonight and don't pay the price in a health-setback tomorrow!

Our plans include staying in Anchorage at the wonderful Captain Cook hotel downtown, for a change of scenery. Today, after work at 4pm, I'll make my way to the hotel and indulge in a steam and a work-out (cold begone!) before getting ready for the night. Andy will join me once he's done with work and drives in from the Valley.

From there, our friends, Jodi & Graham, are hosting their famous Hot Pot on a many-person scale. It will be delicious and tons of fun! I'm hoping the special Hot Pot spices clear our heads. The City of Anchorage offers great fireworks at midnight, and I'm crossing my fingers that the hotel room will be aimed toward the view, to forgo standing in the cold...it's a cold snap all week: -22 degrees near home this morning! A cold during a cold--oh, the torture!!

Resolutions for 2009? Dunno--probably exploring more of Alaska with Andy: two things I love.

Happy New Year to you!

*Amy