Festivities and Finals

We got the tree up and have decorated the house, inside and out. Aus-town had its first hard freeze and we've enjoyed our fireplace a lot. It sort of feels like Xmas.

On the other hand, though, I'm under deadlines to finish final papers, give my students their exams (individual oral finals, very time-consuming), and grade their final projects. I've barely had time to work on Xmas cards (something I actually enjoy doing) or do any baking but the end. Is. In. Sight. I just have to get through this week and then I'll have plenty of time to make cookies and do some Xmas shopping and generally make merry.