"Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store..."

This time of year is tricky. For some, it's harder than they care to discuss (which is okay, by the way). They are probably fighting through loss and sadness, and this time of year reminds them of that. For others, it's a magical time full of joy and happiness (which is also okay...). They see this time of year full of the Christmas spirit - everything is incredible and wonderful! 

Then there's me. 

I was raised in a family that centered their lives around family time -  and while it's still very much a part of who I am, this year I was not feeling the Christmas spirit - at all. Sure, I can listen to Christmas music and decorate and watch Christmas movies - but I don't feel the happiness that usually comes with all those things. I don't feel the warmth in my heart, or the excitement that Christmas is TOMORROW. By all context clues, I should be feeling all the wonderful things that surround Christmas - life is so much better now for me. 

While traveling this weekend, I was hoping something would kick me in the butt and ignite that Christmas fire down deep. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. Instead I complained about how exhausted I was (left Boston at 9:30pm on Saturday and got into Smithfield at 3:45pm on Sunday.. long travel time) and how hungry I was. I was irritable and grumpy, two things that do NOT scream festive. 

Once I step foot into my parents' house, which has been beautifully decorated for the season since before Thanksgiving, I felt a change of heart. I was now immersed in smells that reminded me of the season (my mom is an incredible baker!), music was playing that I was raised on, and the entire family was together again for the holiday. Now it feels like Christmas! Sure, it's 60 degrees and sunny with ZERO snow, but that's just how life is here. We are getting ready to head to Christmas Eve mass (family tradition) soon and be reminded exactly why we celebrate this beautiful season. It's not about the gifts, it's not about how much money you spend. It's about celebrating a new season of life - something we talk about a lot on here - and what it means to begin with a new sense of wonder. 

Speaking of new...New Years is right around the corner, when we all decide we're going to eat better and work out more and use less social media. Those are all great resolutions to have, but why don't we make ones that will help us grow as people and become better versions of ourselves? Talk about a new season of wonder! In 8 days, a brand new year will start with a clean slate and a world of opportunity for you to chase. Use the time between Christmas and New Years to really (truly) look at what you want next year to look like, and start manifesting it. Set goals that you will be able to attain by this time next year - and BELIEVE that you will! 

The Christmas spirit has the ability to change your view of the world, even if it's only for a little while. Enjoy this time surrounded by family, good food, and great memories - regardless of the gifts. Be present with your family, not scrolling social media or using it as a diary. Post those pictures of your kids dressed in their matching pajamas, and their adorable Christmas outfits - then get back to family time. You can check on likes/comments after your time with family is over. If you are not spending time with family this year, I am sorry. I don't know what that's like, but I do know that if you ever needed one, my parents would gladly adopt you into ours (they're just the best people). I hope you still find time to enjoy the holiday - it's a day of magic and wonder, and is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. 

For those harboring sadness and loss in your hearts this time of year, my heart goes out to you. This time of year never gets easier, we just learn how to celebrate those we lost and share stories in their memory. We try and live how they would want us to live, all while trying to keep their memories alive in our hearts. I hope you know how special you are, and how incredibly loved you are. If there ever comes a time you need to talk about something on your mind, please don't hesitate to reach out. Loss and grief can be tricky sometimes, and sneak up on you when you least expect them to. But there's no shame in feeling what you feel. They are YOUR emotions, and while others may not understand, you can take solace in knowing that someone out there does. 

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And finally, for the people in the back...

DO. NOT. REGRET. A. SINGLE. BITE. OF. FOOD. 

Yes, we all want to be fit and healthy, and it's a process. BUT not enjoying time with family because you're worried about how you look... not okay friends. If there is anything I have learned from following some amazing mentors on the social medias, its that missing out on life because of how you look isn't going to add value to your life. I personally have some insane goals I've set for myself for 2019 (attainable, but still insane), because I have some internal work to do, but that doesn't mean I am going to turn down any sort of food or time with my family because of it. 

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I hope that you make some amazing memories with your families over the next week. I hope you laugh until you cry, take all the pictures you can, and are truly present with those around you. Leave the phone on the table - it'll all be there when you get home and are starting to unwind. I hope Santa is good to you - and if Santa isn't your thing, I hope you enjoy the time with people around you who love you and want what is best for you. I hope you all finish 2018 with a bang, and are ready for an amazing 2019! Anything about Everything will be back and better than ever in the new year - and I can't wait to show you! 

Wishing you & yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year!