We had an old-school Christmas this year. My son asked for things such as a, rotary phone, record player, and records. I also made my boys a retro foodie gift basket with treats from back in my day like, stove top Jiffy Pop, Twinkies, and Cracker Jack! We also picked up a plug and play Pac-Man with 14 other games! It was great. We had a blast. So far the New Year has been a bit challenging for me, but I have faith that things will get better. Things can’t stay the same. So, I’m in for what this year will bring me. Here is a peek at how it ended!
At this year’s end I learned that:
10. the December birthday always brings 2 things: the re-gift and the forgotten gift. (My son’s b-day is a few days after Christmas. It’s prime time for holiday re-gifts. Sometimes they are good and sometimes you can see why it was a re-gift. Also because of the timing someone always seems to forget his birthday because they feel like they just gave him a gift. Also forgivable, but expected.)
9. the surprises from having a teen and tween are endless. (Both good and bad, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve got a couple of good guys here.)
8. I truly love the interaction between my boys and their friends. They play! Actually play! ( If your kids are all sitting next to each playing on electronics they aren’t actually playing with each other. Don’t fool yourself. Play is an art. Play is learning. It’s also noisy and has sent me hiding! LOL!)
7. adults can be just as mean and bully people online as teens on social media. ( I am just in shock at the language and nastiness of some business owners online. If that’s how you represent yourself I want nothing to do with you. )
6. having the kids not believe in Santa anymore has made the holidays so much more enjoyable for me. ( I know, I know that some folks are sad when their kids stop believing. Trust me there is still magic to be had without all the Santa crap. I swear this was the best Christmas ever.)
5. people even complain about people complaining! LOL! ( Social media, my friend and foe. Recently, a few peeps were complaining about people complaining about a snow day. Well, if I had to go to work, drive in the crappy weather, and secure childcare for my kids I’d complain too. If I didn’t have to go to work and could stay at home with my kids the last thing I would do is complain about other people. Just sayin’, it’s called compassion.
4.I am not a good hand holder. I just can’t handle people who can’t help themselves. (Oh, I’m talking about adults/professionals that should be fully functioning not people who are truly in need.)
3. there is nothing I can do to make people understand that blogging is how I earn my living and that likes and comments count. ( people seem to have no problem asking me for things or taking things I offer, but give me a thumbs up or a comment and it’s like- NO. Sigh…..)
2. I want something different, but I’m just not sure what. ( Another sigh…)
1. I’m amazed at the kindness of people over and over again. It gives me faith that the world can be a better place. (Even the smallest gesture can bring the biggest rewards. )
Ashley says
I have to agree on the Santa part. We never stressed Santa, and it’s definitely less stressful when I don’t have to hide/use different paper etc.
Emily says
The struggle of getting people to understand blogging is constant for me as well! I either have people who assume I make a ton of money or who cannot understand how I make any money. My oldest daughter is turning 10 soon, so your comments on the teen and tween phase got my attention. Tat phase is right around the corner for me!
Leanne says
You know your “10 Things” is always my favorite. I especially relate to #8 and #4.
Although I rarely DO leave things behind, one thing I LOVE about starting the New Year is the hope that I can! I really appreciate that re-set / clean slate feeling.
Looking forward to whatever new opportunities 2018 may bring. Just gotta be strong enough to grab ‘em and hold on!
Keikilani says
This is a very reflective list. I had a similar reflection of my end of year. I love blogging too. It is hard to get people to understand how their comments and likes make a difference.
Adriana Lopez says
Indeed 2017 was not a great year for me and my family happy is over. What to expect for 2018 now just going with the flow and keeping spirits up.
Uncle Wally says
What do you mean there is no Santa? https://youtu.be/CkrpvCs-kfE
Carie says
I usually don’t comment and I guess I should because I really enjoy your interesting and funny blogs. Especially 10 things, I find I can relate.
Nancy says
Oh man that old school rotary phone is the best! Brings me back to my childhood – my aunt had a black one in her house….for years and years. I loved it. Hoping your New Year is getting better each day though <3.
Louise says
My eldest obviously doesn’t believe in Santa anymore, and we still have a blast at Christmas. I think we’ve actually had some of the best Christmases since she stopped believing!
Louise x
Monica (NYCTechMommy) says
8, 5, and 3 totally! Also I think I want something different too but haven’t figured it out (sigh here too). Wishing you a great 2018! And I love that you posted about lessons learned in 2017. It’s always fun to look back. 🙂
Tiffany Khyla says
Even though it’s not my main source of income, I’ve found that blogging is a hard concept to explain in general, let alone monetizing. I love the blog world though. I continue to be fascinated and frustrated by it.