So, I have to admit that I've been in a bit of a funk lately. This is so not me, especially at the holidays. Usually, I get almost giddy at the holidays and thrive on all the hustle and bustle. What happened this year? Seriously, I don't know. I feel like I've been just putting out one fire after another for weeks now with no time to think about what I'm doing or why I should be enjoying it.
The fact that we are traveling for the holidays isn't helping anything. I hate to travel. (Wow, I actually admitted that. I'm such a homebody.) I hate to fly. And I especially hate traveling and flying at Christmas time. Getting us all packed (with snow gear no less), getting all the holiday gifts finished and mailed in advance, arranging for pet sitting, plus a gazillion other things has my head swimming.
I made the executive decision not to get a tree this year, due to said travel. I was thinking that decision would help cut down my stress level and let us focus on the trip. Maybe a mistake, however. Last week, Caleb came up to me with his big blue sad eyes and said, "Mommy -- no advent calender (nope, I never got that going either), no tree -- its like its not Christmas at all." When I finished flogging myself emotionally, I vowed to him that I would "Christmas up" the house on Saturday. And I did. Even though I was thinking about all the other things that weren't happening instead.
Although we still didn't put up a tree, I did put up a bunch of real pine garland, our favorite Christmas items, twinkle lights and the stockings. And you know what -- after I finished I felt so much better! Still stressed, but in a more cheery way.
Another thing helped up the mood a little bit. On a lark, I sent the amazing Tara Whitney a photo for a little contest she is running on her blog. This morning I saw that she chose mine as one of the top 21 (out of, I think, over 400). Now, the rest of those photos blew me away, and I don't think mine is getting many votes, but I really don't care! I loved my shot and I love that it made her top picks and that is enough to put a huge smile on my face. Here's my photo:
If you are so inclined, head over to her blog and check out all the entries and vote for your favorite!
Finally in the mood-enhancing department, today's weather is cold and overcast. Yes, I do love my crappy weather. There is nothing like a gray day to make me feel cozy and happy inside. Weird, I know, but right now that's a good thing. I wish I could be baking cookies or sewing but instead I'm wrapping up some packages and making the mad dash to the post office. Wish me luck.