in which our heroine wakes you up before she go-goes.

(it sounded funny at the time.)

yesterday was a milestone in my life. it was the first year that I have been at the same job for an entire calendar year. it's sort of strange that I've been working since I was eighteen and this is only now happening, but so be it. it makes things much quicker at tax time, that's for sure. it is also the longest I've ever been at one company, and in four more months, I will have been at my job for two full years. I think that's pretty great. I still love it every day and I love that I can leave work at work and keep home life for myself. I think that's also pretty great.

when I was getting ready to leave work yesterday afternoon, at around 1:30 p.m., I had been bumming hard for reasons unknown. just...life stresses, I suppose. on my way out I went through the warehouse, saying goodbye and happy new year to two of the three owners (one is on vacation), a couple of the shipping guys, and one of the proofreaders. our office dog came up to say goodbye too, and I got in the last few doggy snuggles of the year.

the shouts of "goodbye" and "good work today" and "happy new year!" lifted the fog of moodiness and brought a smile to my face as I pushed through the warehouse door to the outside world. the bright winter sun hit my eyes and, while I shaded them, my smile turned into a grin. I walked through the crisp air and I thought, you know what? my life might suck sometimes, but it's still my life, and I'm living it as well as I can, and that's something to be thankful for. and so I'm trying to be.

last night I lit a candle for all of us, in the hopes that it shines light on some goodness and hope in this coming year. I wish you all health and happiness, luck and love. kiss your significant others, hug your friends and family, give snuggles right back to the animals who love you unconditionally, and believe.

happy new year, everyone.

(this post was chosen by the Holidailies panel as a "Best of Holidailies" selection -- my second one for the season. thanks again!)