Whew. Will admit, had a heck of a time trying to start this one. How to sum up a year-plus' worth of growing regret and frustration over being away from so many dear friends and people I love. How much I've missed this place, and you folks. Will admit, too, that I was a little nervous; you deserved better than I've been able to give, and that I haven't been able to, or even afraid to, left me feeling ashamed. In the end, though, the old adage about keeping it simple (stupid) suggests itself, so: I'm sorry. Truly am. For any feelings I might've hurt, for just not being here, and for any worry the long silence might have caused anyone. Only hope you can understand and forgive. And that I can make it up to you, and do better. Goodness knows, I intend to try.

As you can probably guess, it's been kind of a...messy year. Won't belabor the details, but computer problems, internet troubles and internet-less periods, the ongoing war with the health, and - quite frankly, probably foolish - gnawing sense of reluctance to come springing back on here, only to (yet again) fail to be able to follow through, all conspired to keep me sidelined a whole lot more than I wanted. Or, ever intended. Can tell you the heart's holding steadier than we had expected, and while there's been some hiccups to be sure, the fight goes on and goes pretty well. Still alive, still kickin', and not goin' anyplace anytime soon. And, for the record, not leaving DA, either.  

But, the big reason I came back is to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a very, very Happy Holidays. As I said to another good friend earlier this afternoon, would be damned if would let another Christmas go by without at least doing that. Please know how much you friends mean to me (for whatever that's worth), and how much you've been missed. To all of you, want to send my love and prayers. You're great people, and deserve all the happiness this world can give. Truly hope that the last year has been treating you all well, and that great things have been happening for you. Look forward to being able to catch up and find out, if you're willing.    Expect some e-mails and chat-ambushes in the days ahead. Just ask ya to bear with me. The old man takes a little longer to get going sometimes, these days.  ^_~

Most of all though, again, Merry Christmas and happy holidays. Hope the season is amazing for you and your families, all. Will see you again soon, folks. Love you, all. Be good and take care, for now.