First off, I want to thank my Lord for another year. When, in my wildest dreams, did I ever think I would make it to 2014? In my mind, I always thought 2000 would be it for me. Yet here I am still, after fourteen years.
So 2014 has started off very slowly, dragging its feet, if I may. Which I'm guessing has had to do with several factors: recovering from the holidays, not looking forward to the challenges of a new year, and asking, 'where have I been and where am I headed?' among others.
Yes, we started with Victoria's birthday celebration, and that was awesome as always, but that's as far as it goes. It could be because I entered the year with a horrific back pain, which comes and goes on a whim's notice. Or maybe the below-freezing temperatures have been to blame. Or, the fact that we just celebrated Mom's first year anniversary of going home to The Lord, which is always painful.
It's been so slow as a matter of fact, that there are still boxes of Christmas decorations hanging around. Why the reindeer are still hoisted out front, for good measure?! The dollhouse I put up for the holidays, is still garlaned in lights, though not lit and twinkling, still out on the porch in all its splendor. The doll family will be celebrating the holidays, with their decked tree and all, for heavens knows how long. Blame all this on the back pain. The wreaths are still hanging on the bottom front windows.
Because of the snowstorm on January 3rd, my very important eye doctor's appointment was cancelled and I still haven't called back to reschedule it. Since then and even before, like many parts of the country, we've had snow, rain, fog and even some nice weather in between. But it's been mostly snow, rain, and frigid temperatures, which if you ask me are not very conducive to any outdoor activity except skiing, for those who can afford it, that is. I, for one, certainly can't afford it. I was financially wiped out with the holidays, and am extremely lucky to have just enough money to pay my bills and to eat.
But not to worry, it's not all that bad. Some positive things have happened so far. For example after so many years I visited my high school last week, and experienced the unique opportunity to bask in the memories of the innocent high-schooler. I was both honored and in awe to be walking the corridors and going up and down staircases I had only been able to see in my dreams. I felt so blessed to be there after all those years. The libarian assured me, "We are all family here." And what a nice thing to hear her say. I gifted the school with an autographed copy my book, The Women in White. If I can inspire just one student to succeed, my job in life has been accomplished.
Another wonderful thing came about - Cristina landed a dream job with a major women's magazine as writer, in addition to her regular job as researcher. It's right up her ally, because if anyone can research a story, that would be Crissy. Glamour you are so lucky to have her! As for InStyle, you missed out on having on board, one of the most dedicated and talented people to come out of Princeton. Like the saying goes, "One man's gain, is another man's loss."
On another positive note, our own chef Christian, family pride and joy, landed a place as a judge of this season's Top Chef in Puerto Rico, another in his list of many accomplishments. We are so proud of both Cristina and Christian. Congratulations, you guys!
In the meantime, in my job as a wannabe writer, I am always researching, be it by reading anything I can get my hands on, on the internet, or by traveling when the opportunity presents itself. This last week, some Godsend information landed on my lap and I literally ran with it. It turns out, I may have found the missing link to our family tree which I had altogether given up on, but found one day short of Mom's anniversary. I couldn't help but think that it was Mom's last gift to me, before she left the realms of earth completely. I've always believed that the first year, our loved ones stay with us jut to make sure we're going to be okay and then depart to her eternal home. If you get a chance read my last post.
Victoria has been on winter break as most college kids are, and it's been wonderful having her home. But she seems to spend a lot of time on her ipad, laptop, or watching TV. And although we're somewhat concerned with her lack of physical exercise, I must admit I prefer her home on the computer, than out gallivanting with people who may not have her best interests at heart. We have to be grateful for the little blessings, in however way they come. Brilliant minds do work differently, and who's to say she's not feeding hers with everything in her power. Things could always be so much worse - Miley comes to mind!
Anyway, to quote Helen De Generes, I am truly blessed to have come this far. And, no, I did not make any new year resolutions just like I never do, except to try to stay healthy, to focus on what's really important in life, and to try to enjoy each day to the fullest, if only my back will allow me.
God bless! Stay healthy, focused, and never lose sight of your hopes. They're only a dream away!.
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