As my semester of teaching closes and I navigate the holidays this month, my greatest challenge is dismantling the built-in enormous expectations for the perfect Christmas or winter break. What are some of those expectations?
I’ll get loads of rest
I’ll get loads of fresh air and outdoor exercise (as I’ll be in South Carolina, a much warmer climate than New England, where I live)
I’ll read loads of books that I’ve bought this year but not yet cracked open
I’ll do loads of home projects when I return from SC, including painting several rooms, hemming 5 pairs of pants, and overdue kitchen repairs
I’l do loads of yoga
I’ll do loads of craft projects– both paper and bead-based
I’l do loads of writing– personal and professional
I’l do loads of yummy winter cooking
I’m sure there’s more (loads of laundry, of course), but you get the picture. I know that this imaginary list is just that, a list for an imaginary winter break in which the laws of physics, biology, psychology and other things are not in force.
This reminded me of a blog post I wrote a couple of years ago, about a fantastic vacation I took in Arizona. It didn’t remotely resemble the imaginary vacation in my head, but was infinitely more pleasurable. And it actually happened!
Here’s hoping we can all have actual breaks and holidays that give us rest, fun, and satisfaction.
Take a look at the post, and I hope you enjoy it.
-catherine
