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Christmas 2015 and Moving Forward

Christmas was pretty low key this year, which is a good thing. No hospital visits and mostly relaxation.

I received an ice cream maker, a tortilla press, bath stuff, and movies. A lot of Star Wars, which is fantastic!

I got a few things on Boxing Day. I found Firefly on blue ray for $10. It's a great series and I've been wanting it. Usually it's triple the price! I also started collecting the Clone Wars series because I realized there's so much Star Wars canon I'm behind on.

But Christmas has always been more about people for me. Seeing my honorary brother, hearing about my cousin's successful proposal to his girlfriend, spending quality time with my family, seeing old friends - these are the things that make my holiday.

But there's always a limit. There's a point where I remember that living at my parent's house for more than a couple of days would drive me insane! I love them all though.

On Sunday, I got to visit with old karate dojo teachers and students. I really enjoyed watching the junior white belt group. It felt really special for my first sensei to call me a sensei!

On Monday, the plan was Star Wars with family in standard. Having already seen it in IMAX, I was curious if it would be any less fantastic. It wasn't. It was just as wonderful. I love that movie and disagree that it is a repeat of A New Hope. That is all I will say as I'm not one for spoiling things for others.

I was planning on leaving on Tuesday, but it became impossible with the winter storm that blew in from the blizzard that hit Texas.

The drive home was relaxing. I got groceries on the way and it took an hour to unpack my car. I used a trolley, but the wheels kept getting stuck in the snow. Ooh well, the exercise was good for me.

Prior to leaving for Christmas, I got myself set up to put a puzzle together and colour. Seeing that put a smile on my face, as did seeing Winchester the Amazing. I took an epsom salt bath and settled into the evening. I worked on my puzzle while organic chicken wings cooked in my Actifry.

It wasn't long before I felt the call to do some writing, so that's how I finished the night up. I worked on The Blood Waitress Club.

As we approach the beginning of a new year, my schedule is filling up. I've decided to return to karate as I've found a nearby dojo that does shotokan and is not-for-profit. They're also not into sparring, which is great for me. The karate classes are on days I currently have open.

I'll also be joining a support group for my autoimmune disease, Sjõgren's. That runs once per month.

Writing will dominate the bulk of the rest of my schedule.

And, of course, I'll still be doing iaido because I love it.

I'll be ensuring to take regular breaks to avoid wearing myself out and manage stress levels. Karate always helped my stress levels and I'm really looking forward to it.

I began the day with bacon and pancakes for breakfast. Next was sushi lunch. I hope everyone has a good time tonight and stays safe. I am ringing in the new year with swords and bad sci-fi movies. What a yummy day :)

Tonight is the night to leave the past behind and move forward. Whatever negative and unhealthy things you've been holding onto, say goodbye. A new year is a new opportunity!

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ciao,
R~

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