First, I spent almost six full days with a temperature between 101-103.5 degrees. I missed Christmas on Deb's side, and Christmas morning at the Pruett house wasn't like normal.

Dad didn't feel very good, but it's always nice to watch Deb and Rachael open their gifts.

The doctor said I had the "real flu." Let me be the first to say the "real flu" is no fun.

The doctor asked me if I had a flu shot this year, and I said no. I can just guess what was going through that doctor's head.

I'm not 100 percent yet, but each day is better.

Thanks to family and friends for checking on this old guy.

2009.

Man, that sounds strange.

Another year, and another case of wondering where it went.

To be honest, I'm looking forward to the new year. There are many things to look forward to ... both personally and professionally.

Here at the newspaper/Shopper, marketplaceindiana.com is up and running and is a great addition for Greene and Sullivan counties. You can find it at the address above, or go to our Web site www.gcdailyworld.com and click on marketplace at the top of the page.

It's an on-line service that lists all area businesses, along with their hours and other useful information.

When you're used to working at a computer, it's much easier than using the telephone book!

On a personal note ... I don't make New Year's resolutions. I used to, but they didn't last long. A month tops!

So instead of resolutions, I try to make an effort to become a better overall person. It's not easy, but it's worth the effort.

Patience: I need more, both at home and work.

Organization: My desk at work needs help; my side of the room at home needs some too.

Christian education: Continue to learn. This past year was good, 2009 needs to be better.

Golf: I didn't play much last year, and the scores soared. I'd love to be able to get back to where I was four or five years ago and play in the Greene County Open again. I wonder if there's someone in my family I can ask for lessons?

Do you have a New Year's resolution or something you want to improve upon for 2009?

What is it?