Happy New Year from Sally's Circle

Hi there. Happy 2009!

I'm sorry I haven't written in the past week. I spent the Christmas holiday in Colorado with my boyfriend Mark's family, which was fun and relaxing. Then, the new year swooped in, and suddenly here we are on January 1, 2009. Can you believe it?

Reflecting on the past year, I'm in awe of the healing powers of Sally's Circle. Last night at a New Year's Eve dinner party, a friend spotted me chatting on my cell phone and mouthed, "Are you on the phone with your mom?" Instantly remembering my situation, she began apologizing profusely. I was surprised to find her comment didn't upset me. Ever since I started this blog, I feel like my mom is with me. Rather than lament her physical absence, I'm able to appreciate her spiritual presence. I used to think that was hokey bullshit. Now I realize how much peace it brings me.

I usually make 20+ resolutions. This year I've narrowed it down to two:

1. Write a book. While that may seem like a big feat, it's a project I've been working on for 7 years! When my mom was sick with pancreatic cancer, the two of us decided to write a book together about how her illness changed our relationship. This year I hope to finally complete it and find a publisher. Wish me luck!

2. Continue writing this blog (obviously!). So many wonderful people have commented, emailed, and shared their thoughts on grief, loss, and the uncanny ability to keep smiling through it all. I hope Sally's Circle continues to bring comfort (for you and me) in the coming year.

What's your New Year's resolution?

How do the holidays make you feel?

Good evening. I hope you're keeping warm on this rainy night.

Now that it's mid-December, the official holiday countdown has begun. Commercials nag me to buy gifts, neighbors put up crazy lights (one house plays "Jingle Bells" at a dog whistle pitch!), and coworkers ask how you'll spend your time off.

Chanukah, Christmas, and the New Year evoke strong feelings in most people. And for anyone who's grieving, holidays can be just plain hard. Let me be the first to say: I hear ya!

Over the weekend, I'll post again and share my thoughts and plans for this season. But right now, I'd love to hear what you're doing, where you're going, and how you're feeling.

P.S. If you don't feel comfortable posting a comment publicly, you can post under "anonymous" or you can e-mail me at marisa.bardach@gmail.com.


Photo courtesy of krisdecurtis, flickr.com