The New Year Begins

Well here we are - January 2009. Christmas has been well and truly packed away now in our household. I am always a bit reluctant to take the decorations down, especially the tree - the house seems bereft somehow, but it is done.

We had a lovely Christmas. Daughter and her little 4 year old had been with us for several days beforehand, having to leave for home on Christmas afternoon, and we were joined for lunch on Christmas Day by my mum and OH's aunt and uncle. Boxing Day was quiet - just the two of us - and in the early evening we went to friends, who were holding a small supper party, staying until around mid-night. A couple of times we had friends to lunch. Long and leisurely, both occasions went on until around 8.30 pm. For me that was great. I didn't have to attend any parties, straining to catch what people were saying and trying to outshout everyone else over the LOUD music, and still enjoyed "the Christmas spirit" with family and friends.

2008 was a good year as far as I was concerned. I made two trips to Australia and my first visit to India. My seventh grandchild (second grandson) was born, in fact it was only this time last year that we learned he was expected. Apart from a few aches and pains my health was good and, it being my first year of retirement, having time to myself I was able to be more organised, caught up with some outstanding chores and some outstanding friends! I also discovered the world of blogging!

So what will 2009 bring, apart from my 65th birthday! I have to admit to a certain amount of trepidation when I look forward to the year ahead, not a feeling I usually experience. Our house is still for sale and whereas this time last year we thought we would have moved into our new home well before Christmas, we have now accepted the fact that, in all probability, we will see another full year here so will make the most of it.

I do worry about the impending recession, especially when we read or hear of major stores going under. The firm my daughter works for appears to be having difficulties and, in Australia, my son says his work is drying up and he hasn't any need to return to work yet following the Christmas break. Perhaps that is where my nervousness stems from. However, not usually being one to make new year resolutions, I am determined to be more assertive and positive from now on. I usually rise to any challenge, so here's to 2009, best foot forward and I will take it on the chin, if necessary.




Anne