For me, the 26th of December IS the new year. Christmas night is like New Year's Eve and the next day is the first day of the next cycle. I know the rest of the world doesn't see it exactly this way, most people seem to love the lingering holiday feeling, the "I'm still eating leftovers" feeling, and have happy anticipation of a festive New Year's holiday ahead. I'm certainly no Scrooge, but omg by the time Christmas is over, so am I. I am full, I am a little bit ill from the increased sugar consumption, and I'm not fitting my clothes the way I was before Thanksgiving. The idea of having MORE food, alcohol, and hangovers does not appeal. For me, the 26th is a day of relief and gratitude that we made it through - and had a great time, by the way, it was a wonderful low-key xmas for us this year - and a time to get ready to seriously clean and freshen and organize the house and my life.
I loooove a simple, clutter-free house. I can't leave wrapping paper and ribbon around for long, it's fun for a few hours, but then I swoop through and start my "xmas-recovery" routine, which feels great. Today I recycled all that paper and boxes, put away the gifts, did all the dishes, and even filed all the loose papers on my desk that were waiting for the holiday to be over to get to. Way to go, girl!
The year ahead - well, it's anyone's guess. But speaking from a strictly personal point of view, I'm ready for action. The last five or six years have been hard ones for me - debilitating back pain will do that to you - also parenting - and I've been in a mental funk for quite a while. I'm naturally a pretty happy person, but pain has a way of making you someone you don't want to be. I used to be really active, worked out ALL the time, loved nothing more than to travel, but I spend most of my time lying down, haven't "worked out" in a decade, and haven't actually flown anywhere in almost five years. But as you all know we're empty nesters now, and I'm taking good care of my back, and am feeling pretty good, and I think I'm ready to try it! On January 2nd we're taking a quick trip to California, and we'll see how it goes. I am trying not to be nervous or afraid, worried about my back, or anything at all - and just have fun. It's been so long since I've been that fun person! I'm going to start right now and just flip the switch on my attitude. Start being that cool chick who even though she has physical issues, is fun and bright and loving life. Since my book is being published next year I have a feeling I'll need those skills so I can take on the challenges that come my way. Book readings? Scary!!!! So I'm going to start with this plane ride to LA to get my new year's mojo going, and take it from there. This next year is going to be as awesome as I can make it!
xooxoxoxo Happy Almost-New Year! DR
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