I'm contacting limo companies to see if one of them will provide service in exchange for publicity. A member of the Patriot Guard Riders is a friend of mine, and I'm hoping he can get a few bikers as an escort. I also have to find someplace where people can go for coffee and cake to visit with Tanner for a little while. My house is way too small.

I'm working Christmas Day for the time-and-a-half pay. With what I earned Thanksgiving Day, I should have just about enough to cover my son's airfare home.

Tanner has been away at training for the past month. I'd like this party to be special because I know it will probably be at least another 18 months before he comes home again. Tanner and I are especially close because I raised him on my own after his dad died of a heart attack when Tanner was only four years old.

Last week, Tanner’s dog, Pepper ended up in the ER. I thought she had a stroke. Come to find out, the episode was spinal-related. The vet told me that she's on borrowed time. Since she’s 18 years old, I'm prepared for this, but I know Tanner wants to see his best friend one more time.

Depression rears its ugly head at this time of year for a lot of people, and I'm no exception.

Anniversaries of my husband's sudden death when I was a young mom; the loss of my beloved doggy-friend, Little Bit; two recent family deaths; the cold weather; the change in time that brings darkness earlier in the day; the approaching holidays: all play a part in low energy and motivation. Physically, this time of year is not body-friendly for me and my titanium hip. But being a stubborn survivor, I'm dealing with the pain the best I can each day.

My book, “Broken Spokes” is doing well. Sales had dropped off and my Amazon rank was 787,924. A few email reminders to friends brought the ranking down to 72,643. After Tanner returns in January, I have to do a lot more publicity.

On Christmas Day when I'm working, I'll be thinking about Tanner getting the Hero's Welcome he deserves!

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