Holiday Weirdness

As this holiday approaches, everything is different. First, this feels like a weird holiday because I will not be with my parents and not because they aren't physically here but being together this year was impractical between flights and work schedules. That makes me feel a bit out of place because it is my family that makes my holidays. I am proud to say that I talk to my parents almost everyday, and I can't think of another way I'd have it. Second, my husband and I are on our own across the country from where we have spent the last 13 years for the holidays. This is insane because there will be no gifts (by choice) and we will be cooking and celebrating in small ways. This truly reminds us what Christmas is all about and why it is important to make sure all of those ideals are kept in mind! Third, and finally, it makes me realize that it is time to start making decisions for the long term. I wish my family was closer, and I guess I am understanding why some families never part ways (though I can't say I think that is healthy because what suited your family may not suit you.) 

As we come closer to Christmas Eve and then Christmas, remember to keep your family close, the presents small, and the memories big.  

Ninja free

There is something to be said for having time to yourself; hell, I managed to cook and eat dinner, have a great conversation with an old friend, unload and load the dishwasher, catch up on a few episodes of General Hospital, and begin working on our extensive hand written Christmas card list. However, in the event that you have two boys like mine, they become even more over protective when I am home alone - which is awesome and awful all at the same time.
For example, tonight I came flying out of the shower because my oldest starting raising cane near the front door after I heard something like a ninja dropping onto the front porch. Now, this causes a ton of problems: our floor is tile, there was conditioner in my hair, and a psychotic 125 pound mass of anger. The only saving graces are: I am safe, do not have a concussion (I managed to stay upright), and there were no ninjas on the front porch (though that says little for the backyard)!
This is an amazing option, our boys are sweet as long as they know they are allowed to be but when there is an air of uncertainty, that is an entirely different story. For those many days and nights that I spent alone, I couldn't have asked for better companions and protectors; however, when there are no ninjas on the front porch and they become a bit like helicopter parents when I am alone, it can be nerve racking! Whilst I appreciate the vigilance in care, I do not appreciate a rousing round of Sir Barks A Lot at the natural bumps in the night that come from living in a city.
Now that I am certain that the house is ninja free and all of the doors have been locked at least twice and I have allowed the boys on at least two rounds of patrol, we are settling in for the night. As Christmas draws nearer, remember to love all of those around you, and do not forget your pets for one day you will have to say goodbye and your whole world will have to move on from those fur paws, wet noses, and wagging nubbies (tails) - remember, your pets may only be a part of your world but you are all of theirs.
Tonight, I listen to the deep breathing that only comes from a human sized canine, and know that I appreciate the crazy, helicopter over protection that they give me because it allows me to sleep peacefully and know to the fullest extent how much I will miss them when I have to say goodbye.

"Alas, poor Brutus..."

I can't believe that 2013 is so close to being over! As we are approaching the holidays, and it seems as though my days and nights are non-stop crazy, I am stopping to reflect.

First, for the first time in my entire life (all 31 years minus one but "Alas, poor Brutus, I knew him well..." that's another story), I will not be with my parents for Christmas. This is a horrifying thought, and not because of the gifts (we stopped exchanging years ago) but because it is scary and a little sad. I knew this would eventually happen, but I don't know that I was ready for it right now; thanks ridiculously priced airline tickets. I thought this might happen if we had kids or if there was some sort of crisis, but right now? These are the moments when you wished you lived closer or you could convince them to move. I have been fortunate that they have allowed me to spread my wings and encouraged me to move and go places that make me happy. Regrettably, that also leads to this eventual happening, where I will be across country for the holidays, and I won't get to harass my mom Christmas morning or play drunken scrabble Christmas night. or celebrate the impending New Year with a drink and a toast between parents and daughter. Now, this doesn't mean it is all bad, as there are plans to see one another several times in a short window of time, but for the holidays it makes me a little sad. In short (hahaha), if your family is close, don't take them for granted - invite them over more often, do silly things together no matter your (or their) age, appreciate them for all that they are, and make the holidays count. 

Second, as my nights have been a little insane, remember those grown up moments suck! I am not really sure why everyone is in a hurry to grow up; don't do it, it's a trap! I have always been an "old soul", but when you recognize that the conversations between you and your significant other can include; insurance, infertility, carpet cleaning, chores, upcoming plans with friends, budget, reupholstery, and family, you begin to realize that you have fallen comfortably into your thirties.  

Finally, in the crazy moments of the holidays, I will reiterate some things I have said before, don't spend money on gifts; enjoy the moments and the people around you.