This Hat is a Helmet

For audio, click here . Dear Mrs. Claus, Merry Christmas. I hope this finds you well, relaxing after what was hopefully a rewarding and successful, if not stressful, season for you and the rest of the team up at the north pole. The effort that goes into such an international organization is likely immeasurable. I imagine much happens behind the scenes to not only keep production running smoothly but also current, inclusive and accommodating at a time when much of the world struggles with this on smaller scales. I’m not sure if you get many letters addressed directly to you with people all over the world writing to your famed husband (though feel free to pass along a thank you from me to him for the socks). I could be wrong, but it seems there aren’t very many other women in and around the workshop. And if there are, then we see and hear of them less - like elsewhere in the world, their important contribution seems less recognized. Although I am appreciative of th

Bob and I in my "recording studio" for the podcast version of this blog ;) Audio available as usual here . I also made a video trailer for this blog post! If your screen time allows, check it out below. (written content to follow) Part of the purpose of this specific post is to introduce the This Hat is a Helmet Patreon . This blog has turned out to be more time, energy and even financial cost than I imagined. This post still includes heartfelt and quirky storytelling about the reality of financial woes for people like me. I share my story here of lessons I'm learning about money and income support that I wish I had known sooner. If you're curious about the Patreon and want to check it out now, then you can click the link here . Otherwise, links will be found at the end of this blog post and in the sidebar navigation panel on the blog website. And now, story time. I make a point to wear my sunglasses every time I go to appointments