[thanksgivingmom]

Wisdom, I think you've really hit the nail on the head though with the difference between "busy" as an excuse and "busy" as a reason.

Certainly you have been truly busy, which as I said is totally understandable. I think that if it's a one time thing, busy is fine. It's only when there becomes a pattern of "busy" that it starts to seem unreliable.

If you're still wondering against using it, perhaps you could say how "full" your days are as opposed to how "busy" they are. Then talk about some of the things that fill your time briefly - they're a joy to hear - truly.

Best of luck as you compose this letter!!!