The Old Dried Up Christmas Tree

Does anybody else hate taking the Christmas tree down? I had to get the dried out symbol of holiday past out of the house TODAY. We returned last night and early this morning I began the arduous chore of taking off each ornament and arranging them so that they could be put away with care.

Two things cross my mind. First, I am relieved in a bizarre way to get life back to normal. The house begins to look that much cleaner and so much bigger. Second, I can't help but wonder what fate has planned for me this year. It is an unhealthy obsession, but mine none the less. I mark beginnings and endings so profoundly. The first day when school begins and New Year's Day fill me with dread. They are just artificial indicators of the passage of time. But they are HUGE, in your face, tempting me to hope but reminding me that life is fragile and turns on a dime.

It's a beautiful day. The sun is shinning and I might take my overstuffed self on a kayak paddle, that is, if I can fit my overindulged holiday butt into the seat. I think that would be fun! That will make me feel alive!

Anyone want to join me?