My Holiday Wish List

Ever feel that nagging sense of fear and foreboding that something mysterious is lurking nearby, waiting to jump out and get you when you least expect it? I've been been trying to shake off that feeling for the last few days, but I've finally figured out what it is.

 

It's my to-do list.

 

I don't know if it was the shorter holiday prep time that results from a late Thanksgiving or just my own general lack of enthusiasm this year, but I haven't been as well organized as I normally am for the holidays. This year, I have cards that haven't been sent (if you're wondering where yours is, it's coming), presents that haven't been bought and I'm not even ready to think about wrapping. But as my daughter reminded me yesterday, "Just 10 days until Christmas, Mom."

 

I think that's when I really felt the stress starting to build. But what pushed me over the edge was when she said, "What do you want for Christmas this year, Mom?"

 

I sang my standard, "My two front teeth" answer, which always infuriates her. But then I stopped to really think about it. What do I want for Christmas? Let's dream a moment, shall we?

 

• I'd love a personal chef who'd prepare healthy meals and snacks that everyone will eat (including lunches for the kids!), so that I never have to think about cooking again. Or grocery shopping.
• I'd love a personal trainer who would come to me whenever I'm ready. Someone I could call after looking over my schedule in the morning and say, "I've got an opening at 11:45. Be here then."
• I'd love a personal stylist who would shop for affordable clothes that look great on MY body and put together outfits I could wear for various occasions. No more closet conundrums!
• I'd love a hair and make-up artist who'd stop by every morning and make me look my best while I listen to my iPod and contemplate the meaning of everything.
• I'd love a party planner who could put together a nice evening for family and friends, during which I can just sit back and enjoy the company of those I love.

Sigh...what a nice dream list! But alas, a dream.

 

Still, I can use my dream list to figure out what it is I really want: Good health. To take good care of myself and my family. Time to spend with family and friends. To feel good and look good every day. And in the end, those are gifts I can give to myself through the decisions I make each day and the priorities I set. 

 

What's on your list this year?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments

[Sagan]

Oooh, a personal trainer would be fantastic!

The first two things I put on my list this year were dictionaries and PB2. I guess that means I want to write and eat a lot? :)

Here's to good good health and happy life!

[Alyssa]

A nap.

That's been on my wish list for 7 years (ever since our first child was born, lol).
And it's really the main thing I want.
(OK, if I'm being honest, it's a good 8-10 uninterrupted hours of sleep a night. Every night.
Sigh.)

[Rachel/Fit Mom]

Totally agree. Sometimes it's hard to give yourself the gift of health at this time of year.

[Dara Chadwick]

Sagan, I love that you asked for dictionaries. You know I love the words :-).

Alyssa, you crack me up! Here's hoping Santa brings you several good nights of sleep.

Rachel, I think you hit the nail on the head. Health is such a gift. While we can't control everything, there's a lot we can do for ourselves.