Winter, how do we survived it?

The winter holidays are just around the corner. It makes me sad knowing my children are all grown and living their lives. My older daughter and I are estranged and I have not seen her, my son-in-law or grandchildren since May. My younger daughter is living out of state. And my son is extremely independent and does his own thing 99% of the time! As far as my immediate family, I usually see them on Christmas Eve at my brother's house. Not all of the family, but many come to celebrate together. With Christmas being my favorite holiday, it's hard to be separated from everyone. I am not even sure I will put up my tree this year. It is in the back of my storage unit with a ton of stuff in front of it. Plus, I am planning on heading to Florida for part of the Christmas break. I'm not sure I want to go to the trouble for a few days with the decorations. Not to mention that I struggle after everything is taken down and things are very bland after. It is very depressing for me. I bought a happy light last year and plan on using it once I am back from Florida! I hope it helps with my seasonal depression.

Over the Thanksgiving break, I had the opportunity to fly out and see my younger daughter and her husband. It was so wonderful to be able to talk to my daughter and see my grand puppy! I've missed them both terribly since they moved to Colorado last July. I know it doesn't seem like a long time but before then, my daughter and I had been inseparable. We have done many things together. We used to take a trip every June to the upper part of the lower peninsula of Michigan. We ran many races together, from 5ks to a full marathon. We even used to attend workout classes through our local YMCA along with swimming and biking. There are just many things we both really enjoyed doing together. But as children do, she grew up, got married and started a life of her own. I am extremely proud and happy for her, but I miss her dearly.

I went to see my first musical last weekend! I saw Les Miserables. 

It was AMAZING!!! The music and harmonizing was breathtaking. The many different story lines were intriguing! I just loved every minute of it and didn't want it to end. I had always wanted to see a musical and finally found a friend to go with. She invited her daughter and the three of us went. We have already booked another one and are going to see Six in January! Something to look forward to in the heart of the winter!  I can't believe I waited until I was 51 to start going to musicals. I will be going to many, many more in the years to come!

My friend's daughter is getting married this weekend in Traverse City. I have never been there in the winter and can't wait to see what western Michigan looks like in the winter. I've only been to two other destination weddings, one was my sister's and my second marriage. This will be fun because I am just going to watch rather than be a part of the wedding! I will be able to shop and explore Traverse City with friends. 

How do you feel about the upcoming holidays? 

What is your favorite musical?

Any destination weddings for you?

Looking forward to reading your comments and hearing from you! Talk to you next time!

❤Patti❤