Odd that this thread, started last year at this time, has so precisely matched my current mood.

Last year at this time: I was looking for work. I hadn't yet found the mudcat and all of you fine, fine people. I was pretty well sunk in debt and running out of ideas. I was playing my guitar and singing less and less.

Since that time: I found a great job. I've been playing more and more and writing what I consider to be good, solid stuff. My wife and I are on much more solid financial footing and bought a beautiful, old house with plenty of room. My family has been healthy and happy; the boys are growing stronger every day. I feel better about life than I have felt in years.

I have also been lucky enough to find the Mudcat. And for all that has occurred, not the least of which is finding this community, I give great thanks.

I wish you all the blessing of life. I hope you all can share in the luck with which I have obviously been blessed. And that mine doesn't change again.

Bart (humbled by the approaching holidays)