The Bean & Seed

Admittedly, this title is a little more grandiose than the post will be. Mostly, I just want to share some of my goals going into the holiday season. As an adult, holidays have always been a little rough for me. To put it bluntly, they aren’t what I remember from childhood. I wouldn’t say I’m just “getting through” these events, as I do enjoy them, but they can put a lot of pressure on us. With that said, here are some of the objectives I have for the season.

1. Maintain my schedule. I am an introvert by nature, so I need a lot of time to recharge. With holiday planning and travel, it is easy to push yourself outside of your normal habits. To an extent, this is unavoidable, but you definitely won’t see me going out Black Friday shopping at midnight. You won’t see me out cutting down a Christmas tree on the weekend after Thanksgiving. And you won’t see me in a theatre for what I’d consider an extra event. I have to split the holidays between families and then I need to go home and recover. After the weekend, it’s just back to the grind. I won’t compromise the week after a holiday by exhausting myself with plans. I’m not a Scrooge, but I do have to keep in mind that overdoing it can lead to migraines; see my post, “7 Years of Pain“.
2. Keep my food goals in mind. I’m going to overeat at Thanksgiving; that’s a given. But I’m also going to focus on the foods I love and I’m not going to waste calories to make people feel good. If something is too sweet, I’m not going to eat it; again… migraines. If two entrees are served, I’m going to pick the one I prefer and not try a bit of everything. The same goes for leftovers. I’m not taking food home that I know I don’t want or won’t be able to eat. I know people put a lot into Thanksgiving, but sometimes more is just more. I shouldn’t feel bad for having preferences for what foods I like and I shouldn’t feel guilty if I don’t take any to go.
3. Try to fit in some physical activity. It’s in the 60s today, so I’m making time for a round of disc golf. I woke up early and got started in the kitchen to make sure everything I need done before Thanksgiving is done by 2 p.m., and then I’m heading to the course. If any of my nephews want to go out and throw a football around tomorrow, then I’m game! If anyone wants to go for a walk, then I’ll be there!

So there you have it, just some simple thoughts… A bit of boundary setting for myself and some reminders that life has to continue as normal outside of the rush of the season. I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Thanks for reading, Matt

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