What's up, Internet?

Long time no blog. Yeah, I know.

The holidays are behind me and I am planning the new year - three bead shows, one that involves air travel which will be tricky considering how much we will have to bring with us.  I am really looking forward to that one since it will be in Seattle and I've never been there.  The three shows are pretty evenly spaced out through the year - March, July and November - so I can fit other fun stuff into the gaps in between.  Next month the girls and I are going to Disneyland!!!  YAY! I haven't been for something like a decade so I am really looking forward to going. 

I am keeping my head above water, barely, as far as murrini and beads go.  I am trying to kick it into full gear since we will need a TON of both for the shows and it's always nice to have full Etsy shops, too. :)  Trips to Kim's will be more frequent as we gear up for the shows and since we are planning to expand into new product lines.

Now, for something completely different. 

What in the hell is wrong with people lately???  There, I've said it.  Don't tell me you haven't been thinking it because I know you have.  I have been avoiding my normal online haunts because the cranky level has been hitting a fever pitch during the past couple months.  Is it because it's winter and everyone has the SAD?  Is it the economy? Is it mercury and that retrograde thing? Is it because it's an election year and every time you turn on the TV someone is griping about the other guy and puffing themselves up like ridiculous, middle-aged male peacocks?  Whatever it is, it needs to stop.  Everyone needs to suck it up and slap on a strained smile and start talking about the weather and how a cold front might be coming in or other such pleasantries, just like my nordic ancestors have done for the past umpteen millenia. 

I have spoken, internet.  Don't make me come out there.