Resolutions; Circa 2012

I have never been the one to give up something in hopes of a better new year and I don’t know the purpose or meaning behind Lent. Instead I sit down and I think about what it is that I could do to improve my life, I was always better at addition than subtraction. A few years ago (or seven) it was to go back to school even if it was only to take a class; I dove head first into school and forgot to wear my helmet. That was a really strange year for me- personally and with my family. This year I seem to have gotten that seven-year itch. I’m itching to celebrate accomplishments (not mine however). So how does one resolve to celebrate those accomplishments?

Nourishment.

1. Take care of myself physically- through exercise and routine health check-ups.

2. Get regular haircuts. Hopefully from my sister Melissa (bonus of spending time with her) but if that doesn’t work out go see Nick at (Hush) and accept that happy healthy hair is worth the money.

3. Nourish the body through food. Cook dinner at home at least three nights a week. Not only does cooking relax me but also since we are what we eat I will be able to see what I am made of.

4. Balance out the soul. This is what I am most excited and nervous about.

a. Read a book a month… even if it is a cookbook.

b. Sing in the shower.

c. Take a vacation with relaxation as the only purpose.

d. Laugh at the smallest of things.

Don’t take things for granted.

Good-bye 2011. You have had your good moments and your bad moments, but it is with this I bid you adieu.

Due North

Growing up in Maine I developed a keen sense of direction. Home was always towards the ocean- if you smell carefully enough or listen closely enough you would be sure to find it. With that terrible saying of “Ya can’t get thaya from heya” always haunting us Mainers it was of utmost importance to know your way home at all times. Winding back roads with no mile markers, street lights, or road signs were always the fastest and most direct way for any trip worth taking.

Some trips that I miss taking now that I am no longer in Maine and can’t just get in and go:

1. The long and amazing trip up 27 to hunt for sugar at the loaf… and PBR.

2. Bar Harbor. Plain and simple. Amazing sights and smells and hidden gems of history.

3. The Jetty. The drive down isn’t always fun but the long walk out past the flat rocks and clam cakes make it all worth it.

4. Red’s Eats. Dinosaur fries. (You must always stop at Big Al’s)

5. The trip home from Sunday River with the girls on Sundays because it always involved nachos and rocks.

Now that I am no longer in Maine I know that I can still find my way home by heading due north. North up Broad Street and an illegal left turn and I am home in the hood. I guess that I like the south facing view- more sunshine to light up house through the windows.

In a week I’ll be heading north up 95 to vacationland. I’m giddy with anticipation of home and all things Maine.

The smell of fir, balsam fir

The weekend started off terribly but like all things that didn't seem to last. Arguments are never worth the effort and always leave me completely exhausted. Enter my adorable little Christmas tree. I just love it. It was love at first sight. I paid for the tree and the newest in tree stand technology- completely screwless! The tree guy drilled the hole, bagged the tree, and threw it over his shoulder to carry it to my car. I know I'm from Maine because I found this lumberjack quality totally attractive. I insisted that the tree ride shotgun since it was just me and the tree. He obliged and then shyly asked for my number. Oh Christmas!

Fast forward to Saturday after the branches have fallen. The lights went on (all red) without a snag. As I start decorating with the terrible plastic ornaments purchased last year on clearance it hit me. All of the memories of Christmases past came flooding back. The laughter of childhood with my sister, the dancing lights, the fudge making, the perfect wrapping, the anticipation, the friends, the family, and so much love. I found myself rocking around the christmas tree, just me and Loki. I can't wait to get home in just over a week and see everyone.

Yes, Margaret, this tree will be thrown out the window when all is said and done.