Stressed is just desserts spelled backwards right? That is exactly why I have put on 7 pounds since Thanksgiving. I went to put on a pair of jeans the other day and had to lay on the floor to button them. You know...like Julia Roberts in the movie Eat, Pray, Love. Although I am sure she didn't have to go up to my size. Muffin top seems to be the dessert apropo. I am like most women, who eat (and drink) when stressed. It's not intentional, I just don't know what else to do. Sure, I could exercise, but you have to have energy and motivation for that. That's another post...another day I will tackle that one.
The source of my stress comes in the form of a month of jam packed holiday celebrations and birthdays. Both my daughter, Marion, who is soon to be 9 years-old and my husband Vincent have birthdays at the end of December. After all of the dust of Christmas settles, I try very hard to plan perfect birthday parties for each of them. What complicates things is that my husband's birthday is New Year's Eve! Everybody celebrates his birthday right? Wrong....he is forgotten in the party planning preparations by family and friends year in and year out. It's not their fault...their busy. How do you make someone feel special when so much revolves around other celebrations? Which brings me to my point.... why do I put so much pressure on myself to make other people feel special on their birthdays?
It's not because I was deprived as a kid. I was not. It's not because I want the world to see how cute I can party plan. It's not because I want them to appreciate me...although that would be nice, but mostly because I think it truly stinks that they were born this time of year and everyone has the right to feel special on their birthday. They both get "regifted" items from Christmas from other people. They get the things that people didn't have time to return and didn't want to deal with the hassle of the holidays after Christmas crowds. You know who you are. It's the thought that counts right? Well, then put some thought into it. At least a phone call or send a card or email to ackowledge the day.Trust me, I know this time of year is a drain on patience and pocket books. I feel the burn, but I truly think that people born in December get jipped.
So, this is why I get stressed out. I love my family and I want them to be happy. Maybe birthdays aren't such a big deal to many people, but I think they are the day God chose to give you to this world. Isn't that worth some effort or recognition?
Oh well, those who love me will just have to deal with a little more of me to love, in sweatpants, with Hudsonville Mint Chip on my shirt, and wine breath until I can get back in those jeans.
Happy Birthday Marion and Vinny!
