Build motivation. I have a lot to do in a few days, but I’m an organized person, and I have a caring spouse. Together we can get it all done and still enjoy ourselves and our children. I don’t want to teach my children that the holidays are about rushing, cleaning, worrying, and stress!

Release negativity. This has been a difficult year for my relationship with my mother and stepfather. I’m going to let that go for the sake of a peaceful and happy holiday (and new year). I am working on boundaries so we don’t have a repeat of issues that arose this year, but that isn’t holding on to the negativity – that is helping me move on.

Express sorrow. I am still having trouble coming to terms with my cousin’s diagnosis. I know that she could still have years – but to know that she is, in essence, dying at 26 is horrifying me. I’m so sorry. I love her and I’m now being as supportive and encouraging and “cheer-leading” (ironic, as she’s the cheerleading coach at my old high school) as I know how to be. For her, I’m trying to be “peppy” – and that’s really saying something. I grieve, but I want to let it out here and with my friends, so that I can continue to be encouraging and supportive of her, without adding to her burden, and that of her family.

Contemplate gratitude. I love my daily 5 – that is really helping take my focus off all of the negatives in my life right now. I’m grateful for that goal and for seeing it so many other places around 43T.

Embrace creativity. I’m really trying to get back into being creative. It is really a part of me and not working on anything feels…wrong. I need to ensure that there is a creative bit to every day for my own well-being.

Uncover strength. I thought I had reached the end of my strength several months ago – well about 7 (before the birth of my daughter). I have since found that I can bear more than I thought. It is amazing how much you can go beyond your normal boundaries, what you can do when you must. I’m tired but I now think that I can keep going – if I can just manage the occasional rest break with friends now and then.