This Christmas will be a bit different. This year, I will be on a strict budget as my business is still in its early stages and I’m not yet laughing my way to the bank. In the past, I’ve always had good intentions about following a budget, but have inevitably lost track as the spirit of the season took over. This year though, there really is no option.
Interestingly, I can’t recall a December when I’ve felt less stressed. Perhaps it’s because the expectations I have of myself have changed, but I feel like I can really focus on having fun and bonding with my family. For the first time in years, I’m thinking about homemade and ‘experience’ gifts to give, and I’m not really worried about that “last minute rush”. I’m also encouraging my little girlaboutOtown to give back in little ways instead of focusing on what she will get. I’m proud of her growing awareness and generosity, and hopeful we’ll be able to continue to offer a helping hand beyond the holiday season.
One might surmise my situation has been simplified only temporarily. I’m not so sure. Instead, I suspect my concept of the Christmas season has been significantly altered, and permanently.
Image source
That said, even though my list has changed a lot compared to the past, there are still a few things I’m hoping for this year. Here goes:
1. Strength & energy
For those of you who have been reading awhile, you may recall the story of my tooth extraction. Well, I’m sorry to report I’ve been suffering side effects ever since. More specifically, I’ve had a face ache. Yup. A face ache. Which is really more of a nasty headache focused at the front, but it’s been every day for almost 2 years, and I’ve been only functioning at around 75%.
For this long, I’ve felt older than I should have, less vital, and less able to manage the demands of a young daughter – with no explanation. Fast forward to this fall, after too many months, a dozen different doctors, and a plethora of prescriptions, my problem was finally diagnosed (following one canceled trip to Spain)! It seems my sinus wall was cracked and a fragment of bone dislodged into the cavity causing an infection to fester long-term. Um ya. Yuck!
Anyway, I’m grateful to say that the solution proposed was surgery, and that I willingly agreed. It was a tiny bit spooky, since the whole thing was so close to my eyes, but it in the grand scheme of things it really wasn’t all that serious. Besides, this time the surgeon was a pro. And, now that I’m on the mend, I’m starting to remember what life was like without a headache.
In the big picture my sinus problem was slight, but nevertheless, it did set me back. It also brought me important perspective. Throughout my “saga” I found myself thinking of my many friends and family who have bravely confronted serious illnesses and who have survived. Their courage, grace and optimism have been profoundly inspiring, and now – in a very small way – I can appreciate what it feels like to have a second chance.
So as I approach another new year, I can’t help but commit more consciously to a healthier way of life, focused on building strength and energy. Health is wealth, as they say and now more than ever, I agree.
2. Some business-related mojo
While waking up with a headache everyday hasn’t been wonderful, I have been working like crazy all year long on my new design-minded house hunting consultancy Housters & Co.. Like any new entrepreneur, I’ve experienced the full range of ups and downs as this entity has evolved. When I look back, I can’t help but be happy about how far I come, but I do know there is still a long way to go.
I do confess I’ve wondered what the hell I was thinking almost as often as I’ve been boldly confident, but I’ve kept marching on because I have faith in my abilities and in the end, I know everything will be ok. And, now that I finally feel like it’s all coming together, I’m totally pumped about the potential. I just need more time and some help from the universe to see me through.
Admittedly, I just bought a little advance gift for myself: Session Three: True Strengths and the Metrics of Ease by one of my new heroes, celebrated author, business coach and authenticity guru Danielle Laporte. Session Three is just one small sample of the wisdom contained in the Fire-Starter Sessions, Danielle’s hot selling digital experience for entrepreneurs. I already feel like I’ve kick started my new year with some serious business –related mojo, and I’m fired up.
3. Serendipity
Here is one you might find surprising (note the sarcasm): the older I get, the wiser I get. You see, as I continue to refine my personal style, it seems I’m getting more particular about the things I acquire – especially when it comes to putting my best face forward.
No longer satisfied with dressing in less than flattering stand-ins, I quality seek stuff that is proportioned properly and suits me to a “T” (even if I do still spend a lot of time at the thrift store). These days, I expect to wait for the right thing to come along, and I have to be prepared to pounce when it does. There is no small measure of serendipity and good fortune involved, and this year I’m wishing for a bit of both. Or, if you’re out & about and you happen to see one of these, drop me a line and let me know where!
- Leather pumps with a hidden platform, a 3” stacked heel and an almond toe – in one of black, gray, brown, navy and/or nude. Why is this too much to ask? These would be an ideal design for someone like me, but I can’t seem to find anything remotely close anywhere. “Down with dainty” I say, “no way” to either stubby toes and 4” stilettos!
- Organic or all-natural oil-free anti-aging night cream. I know eh? You would think this would be a no-brainer, but nope. Cannot find. I just want to fight a few wrinkles without creating oily-skin chaos or polluting the earth!
- High-waist boot-cut jeans in a dark rinse with back pockets placed inwards & down. Hello?! Anyone? I’m 39. Low-rise skinny jeans just don’t cut it. End of story.
- Oh…and one more thing. Slightly unrelated. Why isn’t anyone making 100% whole wheat raisin bread??? Ummm…..duh….it would be a sure-fire money-maker!!
Image by penguincakes via flickr
So, as I sit here and reflect, I think this season is shaping up well. I’m refreshed in business with a renewed face (less it’s ache), and I’m prepared to wait patiently for those few small things I know will make me look and feel great. Best of all, I’ll be giving from my heart and getting lots of love in return.
What about you? What are you wishing for this year?
