Signing off for 2013...

Unless something compelling occurs in the next few days, this blog entry is likely to be my last for 2013. Christmas is upon us, so it is time to pause.

Christmas can mean different things to different people. For some, the deep spiritual significance of remembering the birth of Jesus is almost palpable. For others, Christmas is an opportunity to buy and give gifts, to eat and to catch up with family and friends. Yet others enjoy Christmas because it is "time off"—a holiday. However you spend Christmas this year, may it be a joyful time for you.

Overall, I've had a good year. The opportunity to travel (to speak in Australia, Asia and Europe), to meet some wonderful people, and to spend time pondering some pretty tough questions to do with my research, has been amazing. While there have been several times during the year when I've felt becalmed, it's not until I've stopped in the last few days and looked back that I've realised just how far I've travelled. I hope it's the same for you as you take stock this Christmas season. Thank you for your support and encouragement throughout the year, I appreciate it.