No, I'm not referring to Condoleza Rice. My family and I got home tonight to find our coastline in the clutches of one mighty kinghell windstorm. My Mom called to say that electricity is out at their house, a few miles away. I still have power – need it for the net, you know – but I won't be surprised if I lose it before I can finish writing this post. The weather channel says we're getting 40mph gusts, but it feels worse than that to me. The building is shaking. Lights are dipping. So we'll see. God is with us.

Christmas was really nice. It was at my brother's house in the foothills of the Sierras, between Sacramento and Reno. It was cold and quiet, except when it was warm and cozy and full of the sound of family having fun, enjoying the holiday. We had a wonderful time together, especially with my little nephew. He's 5, and such an incredible kid.

I hope your Christmas was good too.