Welcome to the New Year

I took a break from writing my blog, but I am so ready to return.

I love this time of the year because I take time to think about the upcoming year and to plan fun times with friends and family. I already have several dates filled in for each month up to next October. These fun-filled times include traveling which I really cherish because when I was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s (six years ago), I was very concerned that I would need to relinquish my luggage and passport, but that is soooo not happening.

The other thing I do this time of the year is to reflect on what I am doing to reach out to others. My area is full of wonderful volunteering opportunities for all types of community service. I am reviewing the many choices and will commit to extend myself. I find when I volunteer, I get more from it than I could ever want.

It is also time to clean and declutter my house. Each closet gets a good clearing out and cleaning. I am always amazed at what I have stuffed in my coat cupboard that has nothing to do with coats! Extra mittens, hats, gloves and boots go into the give-away bag to be donated. Since I love to knit and crochet, I tend to make many more scarves than I could ever use so I love to share the warmth with others. Off to the local community donation center they go.

Finally, I like to have some down time in January. I have learned to truly appreciate an afternoon on the sofa with a good book while the fireplace provides heat. My dear cousin gave me a box with lots of tea flavors and I have enjoyed branching out and sipping new kinds of teas. There is something so special about holding a hot cup of tea while letting the aroma in the steam fill your space. Ahhhhh. Life is good.

Photo source: Pinterest