It doesn't seem possible that I have been writing an annual Christmas column for 17 years. That's the same amount of years I have been retired, too. Time surely passes quickly.

My 2012 Christmas list is as follows…..I wish Santa would give me…..

*Peace in my entire family.

*A Presidential election that only lasts for two weeks.

*A new Jack Reacher book every month. And, while I'm on the subject - someone other than Tom Cruise to play the role in the movie.

*A better understanding of technology. Our 10-year old grandson Conor knows more about those machines than I ever will.

*Healthier knees, hips, and eyes.

*Increased ability to listen.

*More patience with poor drivers.

*A group of aged, overweight, gray Housewives for a change. The current breed of Bravo housewives doesn't mirror my world.

*Fewer Facebook friends who feel the need to tell us everything - when they go to bed, what they're cooking for dinner, family problems…..TMI, folks.

*A haircut that doesn't make my cowlick stand up straight.

*More track, bridges, and scenery for our new Lionel train set. We have The Polar Express riding around the floor in our library and it could use some more accoutrements.

*A bed pillow that stays cool.

*Fewer junk emails.

*A decreased need to always be right, to check facts in the Almanac during arguments, and to have the last word. I can blame those traits on being a cross between Italian and Irish, or on the fact that I am a Taurus, but I am old enough to know better.

*The ability to admit when I am wrong, to apologize, and move on.

*More creative ideas for newspaper columns.

And, finally, that all my readers will have a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy 2013. I wish you the best that life has to offer.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTACT DR. SMITH, SHE CAN BE REACHED AT HER EMAIL ADDRESS: JSMITH1313@CFL.RR.COM OR IN CARE OF THIS NEWSPAPER.