Another Year

Well, belated happy new year. Ten days into what was supposed to be a fresh start, and everything seems to be the way it was.

Usually, I make myself a gratitude list at the end of each year. Makes one look back fondly on things one has done. But this time, I wasn't able to do this. Bummer. See, I got sick with the 3-day flu and was feeling lethargic all through the holidays (and if the sore-throated people I've met after the yasumi were any indication, the virus was having a ball going around).

Despite being late (yet again), I best list these things because to tell the truth, I couldn't get excited over 2007. By the time the clock ticks 12midnight, I am the one leading the jumping jacks, honking the car's horns, screaming my lungs off. Last New Year's Eve, I was inside the house singing over the Magic Sing, coughing through Air Supply and hoping that I don't develop lung cancer from all the toxic fumes of the fireworks.

So, here goes... I am grateful for:

1. My family. They keep me grounded and feel unconditionally loved. Thank goodness for their health and safety.
2. My work. It enables me to do the things I would like to do, like encourage my book lust, indulge in DVD marathons, and be generous to the people I love and care for. I like that my work keeps me in touch with artists and cultural workers who I have deep respect for, and that I have the opportunity to help them, even if it's just a word of encouragement.
3. My friends. As time goes by, my friends have become precious and few-er. I can literally count them in one hand, okay two... pero that includes my sisters! These friends are people I've grown up with and who I share common values. We might not see each other often, but then coming together is always something to look forward to.
4. Our projects. This year, our office projects were all well-attended. Sometimes, it's a bane but better that than it bombing. I am thankful.
5. Traveling to Singapore --alone. I have long wanted to go to the Singapore Arts Festival so when I got the chance, it was a super treat. It gave me a preview of what it is to live alone. Not really that bad, but I got into the habit of talking to myself, and expecting my other self to answer. Hmmm...
6. My health. Being diagnosed hypertensive gave me renewed perspective on work-life balance. I was beginning to take too many things seriously but at the same time, I was over-indulging myself with food and allowing myself to be inactive (which I thought was the same as relaxed). Recipe for high blood. With the wake-up call, I enrolled myself in a gym membership and am on my way to a healthier, more active lifestyle. I still have to work on stress management, though.
7. Our little neighbors. Having children around is good for one's health. Especially if they're not yours! Treat of treats without the stress.

Well, that's all on my mind right now. I couldn't even make it up to ten. Sigh. With that out of the way, hope that clears up my cobwebs so I can move onto the new year.