I must confess, I’ve started the new year out as a total bum, a major Scrooge, and a complete loser. Now I don’t plan on extending the laziness much further into the new 2010 year. But it is nice to have a day that you don’t have a long to-do list to complete. A day where you don’t have to keep track of the check marks and a day where you can do absolutely nothing. How many times does this happen in a year? Not many… so I’m taking full advantage of it. No housework, no shopping, no laundry, no cooking, no working, no email (work email that is), no makeup, no getting out of the sweats, and no fixing the hair.
Today has consisted of cycles of sleeping, eating junk, and watching football. I even slept through the Rose Parade! We did briefly start taking down the Christmas tree – but it was very brief. I thought about doing some laundry since the hamper is overflowing – but it was fleeting thought. I thought about catching a movie but decided I didn’t have the energy or patience to deal with the lines. So I sat in my chair, played solitaire, took naps, and watched college football all day. And now that the sun has gone down, I find myself continuing the days trend.
In my attempt to get into the “New Year” spirit, I contemplated coming up with some resolutions for the decade ahead, But then decided, it was too much trouble and too much stress. Then I thought about 2009 and the ups and down of the roller-coaster year. On one hand, it was a terrific year. Alex came home. I had all the kids and their families together in the same spot twice in the same year. And we welcomed in a new adorable grandson. So from that perspective, it was a wonderful year.
On the other hand, we’re still too far away from home. The economy has damped our savings plan and our travel plans. Work is crazier than and ever and I’m working way too many hours and still can’t get caught up. But now as I sit here and type, I can’t really think of any other negatives to say about 2009 (well I do have a lot to say about the current political climate, but that’s for another post!). Which brings me to the conclusion that the year wasn’t as really bad as everyone on TV wants me to think it was.
And here’s why…
I have a wonderful family. They are healthy, strong-willed, and independent. They are carving out their place in this world and doing a magnificent job. I am so fortunate to have the best parents anyone could ever dream of. I have the world’s best little brothers and adore their families and grin at their antics posted on Facebook. I do have a roof over my head and don’t think I’ve ever really been hungry. I have the coolest and cutest husband who has more patience than anyone I know. And unfortunately, he needs all the patience he can get to live with me. He’s my best friend! I have vehicle that gets me to work and back every day. I have pictures and memories of my life that I treasure so much. And maybe most importantly, I have a testimony of Jesus Christ and realize that while I am sooooo imperfect, His Atonement gives me hope, gives me strength to keep going, and reminds me to try and be a better person every day.
So while I was determined to avoid any new year festivities today, I ended the day in humble gratitude for all the good things in my life and for all the blessings that I enjoy daily. So while 2009 was a very bumpy year, I am looking forward to 2010 with optimism and with a grateful heart for I truly do possess the greatest things this life has to offer. To my parents, my husband, my brothers, my children, my grandsons, and all my friends, I wish you continued happiness and peace in the new year and give thanks that each of you are in my life. I love you guys!!!!
AmericanWoman 
