I’ve had a mild case of the holiday -coping with life blues/blahs.  Okay, maybe I’m just tired of being set on “drive” all the time.  But for whatever reason I didn’t feel as my usual self this holiday.  I didn’t feel much joy in opening any obligatory Christmas cards, or reading the annual emails/novels from relatives… Around the office we had an abundance of cookies, homemade fudge, chocolates galore, marzipan treats, and all the carbs you can think of.  I’ve enjoyed good company, and love from the most important people in my life- but…..

I have conflicted feelings that are intertwined with my philosophical beliefs.  Christmas is only a holiday to get into debt, pretend to like some people by showering others with ridiculous gifts topped with equally ludicrous bows.  Christmas has lost the Christ part of it, not to mention peace, love, joy, and charity for those who need it.  Now the holiday starts in August with stores already selling ornaments, and all the trimmings for a tree that gets put away on Dec. 26^th.  

However, my heart was content in playing Mademoiselle Elf by wrapping gifts that were for children to enjoy.  As for myself:  I got what I wanted because I actually dared to go shopping and buy material items that I really wanted/needed.  What’s the point of receiving gifts from someone when it shows a lack of thought from their part?  Why bother to amass dust-collectors that will sit untouched in the back of a closet?  I just told people to NOT get me anything and/or make a donation to my favorite charities.  This is the season of giving and I, for once, decided to give to myself and add my name to the list….the very top of the list!  Mamma Oprah would be proud.  For all curious minds out there I got: cheap non-leather purse and wallet, Mamma Mia DVD, and a telescope. 

Now New Year’s is here.  New beginnings- a clean slate.  I wish I had a nice spankin’ resolutions list, but I don’t have one.  I make my resolutions on my birthday, and honestly, I can’t remember them.  I do live each day trying to leave this world a little better off than I found it, and I hope that counts for something. 

I do have a wish for next year- I wish for President Obama to abolish NCLB or to mandate No Teacher Left Behind. 

Happy New Year!

Love,
Amberley