The New Normal
This will be my second Christmas without my mom. Having no mom is my new normal. I’m adjusting, but it isn’t the same. Most of the worst of my grief seems to be behind me (other than the stabbing, out-of-the-blue stuff that does come occasionally). So, I’m noticing how things are different, and I’m trying to be kind to myself.
One way I’m doing that is by lessening the self-imposed ‘have to’s’. There are many Christmassy things I still want to do, bake cookies, decorate, etc. But there are others I don’t. It’s all in my head really. So I’m doing what I like! It feels like a kindness.
I’
m sewing less, and knitting by the fire more. That’s soothing and cozy. Speaking of suddenly doing what she wants – my dog D’Arcy, whom we’ve had for over 12 years has suddenly taken on a whole new persona. She has stopped complying with the house rules quite a lot! Here she is, completely unauthorized on my bed! This really never would have happened before. We rescued her at age 3 to 5 years (yes, she really is that old), and she’s been the most obedient dog ever – uh… until now. I’m thinking this is the dog equivalent of the Red Hat society!
What do I feel like doing? Taking photos. This was
one I did for #theidearoom Photo of the Day. The word theme was Blessing.
Knitting, and just being a bit quiet are right up there too.
Here is to being kind to ourselves, and doing what we like! Merry Christmas, and a very happy and blessed New Year.
-Letty
Happy Dance Quilting 
Not much I can add to this beautiful post. Merry Christmas to you and yours 🙂
Hugs. It is difficult missing a loved one during the holidays. I’ve been in your shoes with both parents gone. Red hat society. You cracked me up on that one!
I like your idea of being kind to ourselves and doing the thing we like to do during this blessed season. Helps me to slow down and appreciate with gratitude the simple joys around me. Thanks for your post! Merry Christmas!
What a beautiful thought – being kind to ourselves 🙂 Less stress, more fun, more I want to instead of have or need to. Love that!
Letty – I so agree. That has been the biggest adjustment for me about retirement: just letting things be and going along with it rather than always feeling like I have to have a list that must be checked off. I am currently on a knitting and spinning jag and leaving quilting be for a while. Rather that than burning out. It’s supposed to be fun! I am also gathering ideas and mulling over what quilting project I want to do – I will know when I am ready for it.
Merry Christmas!