And so it starts. The weather is taking a decided downturn this week — winter is wholly upon us after a few fits and starts. I could honestly live without a winter. My theory is that snow should only be able to collect on trees, mountains, and lawns – but nowhere that a person drives or walks.
I think I used to love winter — I have tons of photos from childhood where Ken and I went crazy in the snow — building forts and tobagganing. I’m not sure where that carefree love of cold and snow went to. I certainly don’t feel in love with the snow and ice when I’m walking to the train, across open parking lots.
I suspect I’m harboring a bit of an internal scrooge.
HOWEVER! This Christmas season I’m actually putting up decorations. I’m having a bit of a “decorate my house” party with some friends. I’m pulling out all the glitz and glitter. I even have some decorations planned for my personal office — the main office has already been done up. (have I mentioned I LOVE having my own office, complete with HUGE windows. Government jobs Rock!!)
Tomorrow is our office Christmas party. We’re heading up to the tower for lunch at the revolving restaurant, and then coming back to the office for a fun gift exchange. Our office has decided to make a staff donation to a company called “18 Wheels of Christmas”.
http://18wheelsofxmas.blogspot.com/
Such a great idea – and what a great way to donate to the community. We were told that our $$ would be put towards buying baby/infant supplies which they are short of right now. And knowing they can buy in bulk so as to make donation dollars stretch — I think it is such a better idea than simply donating to a food bank as a single organization.
On a side note — I have to renew my driver’s license this month. I made a “lovely” discovery on Friday — while I was living in the US, my step father (who ostensibly sold my car) kept my license plates, and used them until they expired. While doing so, he got a ticket that is now against my driver’s license. It isn’t a huge amount, but since it was 2 years ago, the time for appeal has passed and if I don’t pay it this month, I have no driver’s license.
I admit, I get more and more grateful that I am moving the ‘energy draining’ people out of my life. My ex, my step father, toxic friends, etc…with only one life to live, it is simply too short to pick up after people, or fix other people’s messes (though, ironically enough, one of the attempts to fix my ex’s messes has resulted in a friendship. Alex and I have now been friends for the last year and a half, and while he’s making a trip to the US next year, he’s planning on popping up for a weekend to visit. I suppose that’s the power of doing the right thing — plus his young son thinks I’m the coolest Canadian – probably the only one he knows — but it is very endearing)
I sort of wish I had learned to be stronger about the people in my life sooner, but as a co-worker says — “Everything happens for a reason”. I have listened to some stories about people diagnosed with PTSD, and am consistently amazed that I have absolutely no lasting effects from my own experiences. It is a certain blessing.
Now it is just about living life, being happy, moving forwards and achieving goals. Above all, being able to look at myself in the mirror, and liking myself, my life, my journey.
….I could still prefer the road to be less snow-covered.

Dialectics (aka oral explorations)