The New Year . . . One Big “Do-Over!”
By Melanie Lewis
A new year; a clean slate. I’d like to think of 2010 as one big “do-over.” It would afford me a chance to get the things right that have eluded me. For example; this muffin-top which resides on my belt-line needs some reforming. I’ve tried to remember to drink my water and plan for nutritious snacks. Rather than feel like I didn’t make the mark, I’m thinking, here’s my chance. I’ve bought nice stainless steel water bottles for everyone in the family so I won’t have to share my water. By using the refillable water bottles it will hopefully be my redemption for all the plastic bottles I’ve used. To add to the rewards, I won’t be drinking water laced with BPA, or any other harmful chemical component. As for snacking, my list for the store is made from hints from watching the Biggest Loser all last year. I’m heading out New Year’s Day to arm my pantry with fruits and veggies. Sorry kids, no Goldfish crackers! I know, it’s a long shot. I’m hopeful after dragging the kids through the store that we will make it out with yogurt and baby carrots. No cookie from the bakery. Let’s hope my strength holds out.
The past year was all about save, save and be frugal. We needed to be careful living on a break-even basis. But, what enjoyment did I get out of that? I’m telling you, it’s Disney this year or bust. It’s an uphill climb since money to my spouse is like bark on a tree. I just may have to go with a kid at a time or do a lot of the “Work a Day, Get a Day” of Disney’s 2010 free admission program. (Oops, it looks like it’s just good for one day per person). But, we need some well-deserved, piggybank–raiding fun.
A friend of my son generated a desire to develop more social connections of my own. This boy’s mom invited all the moms that she knows to meet next week at The Cheesecake Factory to have our own “play date.” I can’t wait! When was the last time I got to get dressed up and go out without the kids in tow? It got me thinking I need to get out more, even if it means reaching out in desperation. I’ve emailed and sent Christmas cards to people I haven’t been in touch with for years. I sent one friend a Gingerbread Boy that my son had colored. She is narrating Ginger boy’s adventures as part of her own adventures. What a fun way to tell your friends what you’re doing by telling it through the eyes of a cardboard Gingerbread boy. I can’t wait to hear what she, er, Ginger boy, is doing. I have to strike out on my own since my spouse is a hermit and has no desire to do anything that doesn’t involve a computer keyboard. A few neighbors have accommodated my chats.
In a symbolic gesture of tossing out the old, I ceremoniously threw out a beloved pair of slippers held together with duct tape. A few other things went out as well. A word went out that a family in a nearby town had lost everything in a fire; I packed the entire back of my car with anything that was duplicate or unneeded item. The kids got into the spirit of it by donating toys they’d outgrown. I was amazed to see them fill the boxes with what I thought to be their most cherished possessions. To further insure my commitment to reduce my backside, gave up the “fat clothes”; there is no turning back. It was all worth it when we delivered the belongings to a run-down apartment building and grateful new owners. To have the extra space is refreshing. Until all the Christmas decorations come down, it hardly seems as though we made a dent. Yet, that’s exactly what we’ll do. The decorations are on the way into storage and we’ll head off to do-over the coming year. Happy New Year to you!
Melanie Lewis is the mother of two boys, ages 3 and 5. She is married to a self-described geek and works part-time. She enjoys reading, gardening and playing with her Blue-mitted Ragdoll cat Percy and Golden Retriever Rosie.