Holiday Vacation

I am of the camp that strongly believes adults need Spring Break (and other subsequent days off), too.

Perhaps it’s the 12 formative years of my life that formed a rhythm that ingrained summer vacation and days ending at 2:30pm into my bones, but I long for that schedule. Particularly, when work days start and end in nighttime dotted with lunch-time visits to Target encompass my encounters with daylight.

This holiday season flew in and landed on my lap with a notable bang. Making the most of our time in the cities doesn't leave much time for staying at home to nothing for the sake of doing nothing. Each time I’d lounge, I’d remember that the moments I was taking to enjoy my own company were moments I was missing with my friends. Memories I wouldn't have the opportunity to make when we move to Bismarck and so with the ghost of relocation future hovering at my shoulder, I made plans on plans on plans.

And then we had a party. And then I did my holiday shopping. And then it was Christmas. And oh yeah, I got sick.

Bedridden for a day and shaky at best post-nausea, I remembered the one thing I had always been so good about: I need to take time for myself. In the season of giving, we forget to care about ourselves. I certainly did. I stopped working out, stopped writing, stopped cooking all in favor of hunting for more garland and making sure I found the ‘perfect something’ for the special people in my life.

After being bodily forced to stay in and rest, I rediscovered the value of taking a break amidst everything we try to juggle during this season. I doubt I’ll ever win in the battle of Winter Vacation for Grown-ups vs. being a regular adult and letting it go, but it doesn't mean I can’t make the effort to rest and care for myself. A little bit of yoga, a lot of good meals, and an extra nap or three should do the trick.

Happy holidays and sincere wishes of good health to you all!