Happy Holidays, and Merry Christmas to those who celebrate it.

This has been an amazing year for me, and I thank each and every one of you who have been a part of that.

Special thoughts today go out to:

Holly—my loving, brilliant, charming, kind (and yes, a little crazy) girlfriend. One year ago, I only hoped someone like you existed. Now I know that not only do you exist, but you were praying to find me as much as I was praying to find you.

Brenda—my world would be a different place without you and your family in it, and it would be a world that I didn’t want to be in. I am so incredibly thankful for your friendship, support, caring, understanding, humor, children, husband, thoughts and laugh. You wake up every day and try so hard to do the very best you can do, and that inspires me more than you’ll ever know.

Jonathon—I love you, you little lesbian.

And, perhaps most importantly, Harper Hanson—Puppyman, I had no idea that I was a dog person until I met you. You have taught me patience, compassion, the art of counting to 10, the importance of peanut butter, a deep appreciation for riding in cars, the occasional need to unload my anxiety on hapless strangers who knock on the door and a deep fondness for being smothered in sloppy, wet kisses. Thanks for making my year so fun and puppyful. Mama Molly LOVES YOU!

Happy/Merry [Whatever], everyone.