Today, I'm hosting our restaurant's staff holiday party in the woods behind our house. With COVID-19 still on the rampage in Northern Illinois, we figured an outdoor gathering was safest. It snowed last night, and we hope our staff dresses warmly.

But if they don't, we dug a hole in the ground, built a rocket stove, filled the hole with water, and are attempting to give them a hot tub.

Crazy times call for crazy measures.

Reader, I'm keeping it short because I'm anxious to spoil my employees.  This has been the rockiest year of my life.  Far and away. I've learned three big lessons.  First, I've learned that people are the most important thing in my life, and I've learned to tell them that I love them every day.  Second I've learned to ask myself regularly what I can control, and what I cannot.  Finally I've learned that we actually can meet insane challenges by coming up with insane solutions.  

Wishing you a safe, healthy, & happy New Year, and I'll see you on Monday. -Em