dear santa

i know my letter comes late, and by now you're probably tilted back in that leather recliner you love so much, enjoying mrs. claus' homemade chocolate chip cookies while you catch up on your tivo backlog. and i know that next month the little woman puts you back on 'south beach', and you have very little time to revel in some well-deserved rest (and maybe a hot stone massage or two).

as such, i know what a terrible imposition this must be, but in truth, i've waited until now because i didn't want to add to your overflowing load this holiday season. okay, maybe i waited because i didn't have a list to submit until now. regardless--i hope that, rather than an intrusion, you will view my request (see below) as a demonstration of my affection, regard, and concern for your well-being.

aside from that, the truth is, 2007 was kind of a rough year for me. not to sound ungrateful or anything, 'cuz there were some really good things happening...but also some really hard ones. lots of disappointments. lots of big changes i wasn't ready to make, but made anyway. saying goodbye to friends and family both geographically and temporally. and you know, for the most part, it's all worked out pretty good, but what would really send it over the top is this (see below). i feel certain that i have earned a spot on that 'nice' list of yours, but i have references should you require them.

as always, ever-believing, and eternally grateful,
t