The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

I admit it. I began listening to Christmas carols before Thanksgiving and I'm still listening to them (I never seem to tire of the cheery tunes). I've decorated my apartment and my office and painted my nails and toes a fine shade of cherry red. I love hunting for the perfect present and then giving it to the intended recipient. I try tirelessly each year to get a picture of my two cats and me in front of my Christmas tree (this was much easier when they were kittens; it's quite challenging to corral one 15 pound and one 25 pound cat). I love being together as a family (and forcing them to play Apples to Apples, which usually results in a lot of laughter so I think it's a success) and I love hanging out in sweats all day Christmas day. I think it goes without saying that I love the holidays.

For me it's so much more than the gifts under the tree. I love the feeling, the sights, the smells, the snow on the ground, and the chill in the air that to me make the holidays, the holidays. And though I haven't had as much time at home this holiday season, I plan on making the most of the next two days - checking the hustle and bustle at the door and instead of feeling stressed while making the dishes for Christmas eve, I'm going to enjoy the many moments (mistakes and all) the day brings.

My wish is for everyone to take the time to really enjoy the most wonderful time of the year with those you hold close to your heart. Happy Holidays!

Lessons Learned

If you've ever kept a journal you may be able to relate to what I'm about to say. This morning I was looking for a somewhat empty notebook to take to my yoga class (I've already filled up my other one) and I found the one that I took with me to Poland. Normally, I don't like reading what I wrote (I'm not sure why that is) but I seemed to remember this one was more filled with lists which it was. They were mostly lists of what I needed to do when I returned to the states from Poland. Just as I was leaving the country I was offered a job in Illinois and I knew, once I returned, I would have very little time to get everything in order, so I did what I do best, and started making lists.

I happened to stumble across a list that had nothing to do with movers, Home Depot, or checking on this or that in my new apartment. When I re-read it, I was surprised by my insight (nothing too out of this world but still surprised) but also happy that I captured my thoughts, though they may be better qualified as life lessons. They are as follows:

1. Follow your gut - nine times out of ten it's right.
2. Lean on your friends when you need them. If they're unable to catch you, look further and you'll find those that will.
3. Don't forget the importance of family - they may not be able to dig you out completely, but they will hold your head up when you can't and love you unconditionally.
4. There's really no time for shame - acknowledge your mistakes, know it wasn't the outcome you wanted, and move on. Life is much too short.