A Busy but Laid-Back Week, New Year’s Plans, and Looking Ahead

Last week was a busy, busy week, but it was also strangely laid back at the same time. That sounds a little contradictory, but that’s exactly how it felt. It was New Year’s week for us, and while there was plenty going on, there was also a lot of downtime, which was honestly pretty nice.

We had the boys in town, and Noah’s fiancée was still with us. She drove in a day or two before New Year’s Eve, so the house was full again. That part never gets old. Me and Holly didn’t really know what the boys’ plans were for New Year’s Eve. Normally, we have some friends come into town and celebrate together, but this year, because of how the holiday fell, they were planning to stay home and celebrate at their place instead. They were coming in on New Year’s Day rather than New Year’s Eve.

Because of that, Holly and I didn’t plan anything in advance. We waited to see what the boys were going to do. Eventually, they decided they wanted to go downtown to Atlanta for New Year’s Eve. I hate the idea of anyone being on the road late at night, especially on New Year’s Eve, so they ended up staying downtown rather than driving home. They drove back the next morning instead. They had a great time, which is all you can really ask for.

Once the boys had their plans, Holly and I realized we probably should make some plans too. Unfortunately, we waited until the day of New Year’s Eve, which was… ambitious. I started calling around trying to get reservations. I called one of Holly’s favorite restaurants because it showed they had outdoor seating. It was pretty cold that night, so I asked if there was anything available inside. The person on the phone laughed and said they were completely booked and didn’t even know why outdoor seating was listed. They had no room at all.

We tried another place with no luck, and finally decided to go to our favorite Mexican restaurant. It wasn’t fancy, but we love it, and honestly, it ended up being perfect. We had a great meal, enjoyed ourselves, and didn’t feel rushed or stressed. Sometimes the unplanned option turns out to be the best one.

We stayed up until midnight, watched the New Year roll in, and made a few phone calls. I called my dad at midnight and think I probably woke him up, but I wanted to wish him a Happy New Year. One of the kids called us right at midnight as well, which was nice. Those are the little moments you remember.

On New Year’s Day, a friend came into town, and we also had dinner with my family. We did the traditional “good luck” food, which is something we try to keep up with every year. Normally, friends come in before New Year’s Eve and leave on New Year’s Day, but this year they stayed a little longer. That meant all the Christmas desserts we made stuck around longer than usual too. My Christmas dessert feast basically continued until Sunday. Not great for my diet, but I’m hoping it comes off pretty quickly.

There were also tons of pictures taken with Luna and Ted. Lots of relaxing, sitting around, and just enjoying being together. The boys headed back to college on Friday, and Sam took Luna with him. She’s now up in High Point at the boys’ house, sleeping there. He said she’s adapting well so far, so we’ll see how that goes.

Ted definitely noticed at first. He looked around like, “Where’s Luna?” But after a day or so, he also seemed more relaxed. Luna is always playing with him, jumping on him, and generally being in his space. I think Ted enjoyed being able to rest a little more and have all of Holly’s attention again. He also seemed pretty happy not to have Luna squishing him on his bench anymore.

Saturday and Sunday were spent straightening up the house, cleaning, and putting everything back together after having everyone in town. We put up most of the Christmas decorations before New Year’s Eve. Holly always likes to get the tree down before New Year’s Day. There’s some superstition tied to it. I can’t remember exactly what it is, but I think it has something to do with being cluttered all year if you don’t take it down in time. If anyone knows the exact superstition, I’d love to hear it.

By Sunday, we were mostly just resting. Sitting at home, recovering from the holidays, enjoying the quiet after a very full few weeks. I also spent a good bit of time working on my goals and targets for the new year. I do that every single year. It helps me start January with intention and clarity.

I look at my goals for my health, my spirituality, and my family. I think about what intentional decisions I need to make in my relationships. Then I focus on business goals for the year ahead. After that, I break everything down into what needs to happen in the next month. That process helps me feel like I’m moving forward with purpose instead of just reacting to whatever comes next.

That was our week. Busy, laid back, reflective, and a good bridge from the holidays into the new year. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.

Until next week,
Shane

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