In the midst of holiday chaos, gloomy weather, and a never-ending pace of challenges for us earthlings, I find it best to focus on what I can control. Which is not that much these days, luckily, so that works with my limited ability to concentrate. I’ve been thinking about what I’m grateful for at the end of this year.
Here is my starting list.
- My HVAC was fixed and I have heat again. After eleven days. REALLY like that.
- When I showed up for my free flu shot, I got the booster too. Bonus!
- My favorite new gadget is a manual can opener which replaced the ancient, rusty one. I’m smitten. It actually cuts metal and has a large cushy handle. Be still my heart.
- I’m able to keep the birdies, squirrels, and chipmunk’s fed in my backyard. Barely. But I may need to get a dump truck load of seed. Impressive appetites.
- My family and friends are relatively stable after this crazy year.
- There are still health care workers, delivery drivers, grocery clerks, police officers, restaurant workers, teachers, banking clerks, tech workers, airline pilots, postal workers, military members, and city, county, and state workers who keep showing up to support us all.
I’d be happy with three things on my list, so six is golden.
Today we celebrate the Winter Solstice and getting one more minute of daylight. I’ll take it! At my former day job, we used to celebrate this day with Hawaiian shirts, Macadamia Shortbread cookies from the islands, and Jimmy Buffet music. It always perked me up.
I’ve had Beach Boys music playing in my car this entire year. When things get a little dicey, I bring in the big guns and head straight to disco. Never underestimate the power of music.
And being kind to others.
Animals show us how to stay in the moment and enjoy life. We need to be kind to them too.
This year has been challenging for everyone.
Take time to be kind to yourself during these winter days.
Happy Holiday Hugs for you and your furry or feathered friends. Like the ones below at the Oregon Zoo.
I plan to have fun in 2022.
Who’s with me?
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