New Year's Eve musings

In a few hours, a new year will begin.  I'm not one to make resolutions, as I always seem to break them.  There are definitely things I want to change and ways I want to improve my life.  There seem to be so many, though, that trying to change them all in one year gets overwhelming.  Instead, I like to think back on the lessons I learned in the previous year in an attempt to not keep making the same mistakes.  Isn't the definition of insanity doing the same thing over and over expecting different results?

This year has taught me many things.  I've had some great experiences, as well as many moments I'd rather not go through again.  I've learned that it's okay to step out and try new things.  It won't always be good, but it's better than wondering "what if".  Because of this, I want to be less fearful in 2013.  I want to be more comfortable continuing to try new things, opening myself up to new experiences and relationships.  I've learned that actions speak louder than words.  It's very easy to say "trust me" or "I promise", but it's meaningless unless you do what you say and keep those promises.  Because of this, I will likely be less trusting of people until they've proven themselves to me.  Finally, I've learned that I am truly blessed.  There are many people who care about me and make an effort to be a part of my life.  I have family members who are like friends and friends who are like family.  What more could anyone ask for?

In the coming year, I want to pray more, laugh more, love more, and give more.  May all of you have a blessed 2013.

It's the most wonderful time of the year??i

Today is December 9.  It's another humid day in Houston, although a "cold" front is supposed to be coming through tonight.  It doesn't feel like December and it really doesn't feel like Christmas.  I've had so many other things on my mind during the past few weeks, and I feel like I've missed the "peace on earth and good will toward men" memo.  I haven't been rude to anyone, or at least I hope I haven't.  I'm just tired, stressed, and a bit cynical lately.

I know that there is still time to feel the spirit of the season, but I'm beginning to realize that this may be a year that I just sort of "miss" Christmas.  Has anyone else felt this way?  Like you were just sort of going through the motions and the next thing you know it's December 26?  I've had those years before, but I was really hoping to "feel" Christmas this year.  My dad's side of the family is getting together for the first time in a long time.  It's going to be lots of crazy fun, and I don't want to miss out on the joy of Christmas with the people I love most in this world.

I need suggestions.  How can I really get in the spirit of Christmas?  Have you ever "missed" Christmas?  How do I put aside my fatigue, stress, and cynicism for the next few days?  How can I be a kid and feel the joy that should come with this season?