Bah... humbug!

It's the most wonderful time of the yearrrr! That's the hype they spin during the holiday season. I try each year to put on a brave face. I smile, put up excessive amount of decorations all over my home, make arrangements to spend excessive amounts of money on things that really aren't necessities for my friends, family, and for myself. It puzzles me, there is a real problem with the idea of Christmas. Could it be the absence of Christ? As a child I was taught about the Nativity and the importance of this time of year being about giving, blessings, and the birth of the Messiah. I sang religious Christmas carols and even enjoyed the ones that told of old St. Nick. Now that I have children of my own, there is less and less mentioned about The Nativity and those classic Christmas carols. There are less movies shown that depict the birth of Christ, and less talk about the overall spirit of giving. The primary focus is on the consumerism and capitalism of it all. So much hype and spending above one's means. Ads pointing you to buy that bigger TV, more expensive car, or those designer clothes. To me, it puts entirely too much pressure on those in our society that are unable to keep up with that kind of spending. We need to focus on the more important things in life like love, family, fellowship, and community service.

In my family, we focus on the spirit of Christmas and what Jesus stood for. No matter your religion, I feel that in each of our daily lives there is an opportunity for us to help others. It doesn't always mean spending money or "paying it forward". It can be volunteering your time, donating items you no longer need, helping a friend or family member with household chores, cooking for a new mom, or even babysitting a friend's child or family members child. Consider donating your time in a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or battered women's facility. The list goes on. There is a saying: the best way to forget your own problems, is to help someone else with theirs. It's true! It feels good to know you've made a difference. It feels even better to know that you are being your best "you".

I love the holidays, I love gift giving and watching the joy on my children's faces when they open their presents on Christmas day. I'm even happier when I know that I have helped others. 

What are your plans this holiday season?

New Year's Eve

Overcame objections, stood up to bullies, left non existent relationships behind, and secured a positive future. That looks like an amazing 2012 in my book!

My first blog...the first day of the New Year!

I did what my mama told me, bring in the new year with black eye peas for good luck. They were yummy too lol! Additionally, I brought in 2010 with Dick Clark...alone, children tucked in bed....all except my tennager who went to his 1st party with cousins. Still no call from him wishing mama happy new year lol!

As I watched couples embrace and kiss when the ball dropped in Times Square.....it dawned on me that I was alone, without the love of my life, my husband and partner of whom I am separated from. I really love him, and am saddened that he seemingly doesn't feel the same.

Ideally, I have to look at the impending year with optimisim and enthusiasm. I have to visualize all that I want and the image that I want others to see....as well as the mage I want for myself. Positive thinking and affirmations....prayer and faith in GOD's work and miracles. I know that my family will be reunited, my finances will be abundant, my children and I healthy, and happiness throughout my days! Happy New Year folks!