Falling short
The following was written last night (Christmas day); unfortunately, the internet went out in the middle, so I am posting now.
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Merry Christmas and Happy 5th day of Hanukkah one and all. I hope you have spent the day with family and friends and have enjoyed your times together. I ended my last post with the statement that the best things in life are not things, and while I still believe that, the exchanging of giftts that occur at this time of year often leads one to focus more on the things and less on the ephemeral experiences of the events.
I enjoyed playing Santa or Hanukkah Harry (depending on which gifts I gave out) as we brought both our Christmas presents as well as some presents unopened from Hamburger Hanukkah with us to Cincinnati. I have to say that I am amazed at the sheer amount of princess paraphernalia that my daughter received today (including, but not limited to, a silk princess gown and pointy princess hat). As a result of said gifts, I have played princess checkers, princess dominos, princess go fish, and princess old maid. Despite my growing dislike of Disney princesses, in general, I was glad to have had the opportunity to play the games with my daughter.
Despite being somewhat disappointed with the gift exchange this year, I am trying hard, instead, to focus on the positive times I have had with my family. I have not really thought much about my cancer the last couple of days (beyond “trying” to remember to take my medications), but as I sit here writing this blog, I am reminded that my disappointment with not getting “things” I would have preferred is small potatoes in the larger picture of my questionable health. So, although I have fallen short, thus far, of my expressed belief that “things” don’t matter, I am spending the remainder of this evening, and tomorrow if necessary, reframing my mood and expectations. I’ll be more cheery tomorrow.
Be well!
Merle
Gifts and recieving them at this time of year are such a play on the emotions.All the wanting and the false expectations created by Madison Ave,for our entire lives,creates a part of us that will never fully be satisfied. Hence the need for two great inventions ; the gift certificate and the customer service exchange counter. I use them both liberally and never look back.
Happy Holidays….Wes
‘Despite my growing dislike of Disney princesses, in general, I was glad to have had the opportunity to play the games with my daughter.’ –Hilarious–
Merle, My mom sent me your blog. I’ve been reading it for awhile now and always been meaning to reply to you. Just so you know this is the type of stuff that makes me laugh out loud at work (Hard to do, trust me). Thanks for keeping us updated and I’m sorry I’ve been breaking rule #1 of things not to say: Nothing.
I’m living in DC now and having a lot of fun. Say Hi to everyone for me.
Love, Kurt