The great thing about the holidays is getting to spend so much time together.
Yes — all that lovely family time — spent in close quarters.
Time to hug, snuggle up on the couch, and spread the love around.
And, we’ve certainly had a lot to share this year.
In fact, during the last few weeks, we’ve sort of turned it into a competition at our house. And we’ve tested just about every which way we can trade around the various illnesses that have plagued our family this holiday season.
It’s like the gift that keeps on giving.
But, in truth, it seems I get sick about this time, every year. It’s become a sort of special time to look forward to. A time when I can get nothing done, but just be thankful to still be breathing.
Drat kids. Since having children, I spend more time sick than ever before. This wasn’t on the warning label.
“Are you being good right now?” I asked my boys up until the final days of Christmas.
“No,” they admitted honestly.
“I’m not sure if Santa will stop by our house this year at all,” I responded.
“But we are trying. We will be better.”
I think they’re trying to operate under the truth that two negatives make a positive.
Yes, for my kids, the Christmas countdown made staying on the good list even harder than getting there in the first place.
But their continuing (failed) efforts, reminded me that even if you come up short of your goals, don’t throw in the towel; keep giving it thought and effort, and you will get there (eventually).
And now that it’s a new year, you have a chance for a fresh start.
As for making those dreaded New Year’s Resolutions (you know, the things we’ve wanted to change about ourselves for the last five years) … it’s time for a clean slate.
This year, let’s not think on what we need to change about ourselves (i.e., lose weight, work less, quit smoking), but instead, focus on what we want for ourselves.
Feeling down that the Christmas tree your kids helped you decorate, the fridge covered in magnets and artwork all askew, the fresh cookie crumbs on the floor, and the living room full of trampled toys, don’t look quite like a scene out of Better Homes and Gardens Magazine?
Trust me, I’ve been there, too. But, don’t worry. These are the best kinds of messes to have — the kind that come from embracing life and enjoying every moment.
So, my new philosophy is all about striving to keep the clean, messy house.
Nobody wants an all-out dirty house. But a messy house is different; it is one full of life, love, laughter … and resulting debris.
If a spotless, impeccable house is your heart’s desire, just remember, not everything that looks great on the outside always is.
The animal cracker confetti, piles of dirty dishes, glitter in the carpet and magic marker on the dining room table, are all just signs of life.
Let’s be honest, you can’t do a whole lot in life without making a mess. And where’s the fun if you can’t get your hands a little dirty?
