Day 22 - Home For Christmas
With all the storm warnings it seemed smart to head home for Christmas a little early. My parents aren’t far but I’d rather not risk the drive if they we don’ have to during whatever is about to hit us. So the day was full of preparation.
But it started with a much needed lie in. After last night I knew I really needed to focus on nurturing and being gentle with myself. Giving myself time and space to breathe. And swear to God pets just know. They know when you need to be loved a little harder. Navi is not a lap cat. Don’t get me wrong, she needs affection - she wants all the pets all the time and while I’m writing this she’s been walking all across the desk and in front of the computer to get me to stop and pet her. She has settled on the floor below my chair because I had to kick her off before she delete my entire website by mistake. But this morning she knew - she curled up next to me and fell asleep with her head on my arm while I played my game and I really needed that unconditional love. And some down time.
Finally I was decided not to let last night steal away any more time or joy. It was time to let go, at least for the day. I got geared up to go on some last-minute gift hunting but my first stop was to treat myself to a latte. It was good to get outside - it wasn’t too cold and it forced me to interact with people and smile. While this can be draining, it also sometimes forces you into a better mood. It sounds silly but if you ever want to feel better grab a pencil and walk around with it between your teeth. Simulating a smile can actually send signals to your brain to boost your mood.
- Okay so right after I wrote that I got a work e-mail and ended up in a mad rush to rescue two of my staff who were left with a massive order and down 3 sets of hands for the day. Let’s see if I can pick up where I left off -
Right so off I went around the city picking up some extra bits and pieces. After that I know you all think you know what I did next but I’m proud to report that I resisted the temptation of napping. I did not resist the temptation of playing a bit of Dreamlight Valley though. I’m stuck on the quest of trying to figure out the recipe for gingerbread houses - it’s driving me nuts and I don’t want to cheat!
I took a break from my virtual baking and decided it was time to get down to business. I started with a quick tidy and then moved into gift wrapping . I do enjoy wrapping gifts but I don’t enjoy the mess it all leaves behind after. I get carried away and then look at the hurricane leftover and it feels like another chore. I tried to keep it simple this year because I knew I didn’t have much energy to spare.
With little breaks in between I managed to get myself all packed up, my place in a decent state to return to and still have time to spare. With the amount of stuff you’d think I was moving back home but listen, I’m not going to pass up an opportunity for free laundry in this economy.
My parents helped gather me, my things and my cat and that’s when our Christmas light tour in the rain began. There weren’t too many to see this year, or maybe we just weren’t looking in the right places but it was nice to squeeze in a little extra festive fun in there. I’m not sure Navi was too thrilled but I assure you she is quite content and over it now.
So I made myself at home. It’s funny that I call it “home” for Christmas because we didn’t grow up here. This wasn’t our “home” but my family and I are close and I guess it goes to show that home isn’t a place but the people you share it with. So yeah, I made myself at home. And yes I did bring my own Christmas lights.
A nice meal, another one of those salads (I wasn’t kidding I’m obsessed) and another Christmas movie checked off the list! Tonight’s viewing was Sister Swap and it wasn’t as good as the Rockettes one but don’t regret it.
Then it was time to snuggle up in bed and get a good night’s rest for two crazy days ahead!
-B