Hanukkah is a time of joy and love. As I have been dealing with difficult times lately, getting in the spirit has been a challenge. I had a good day today though. I finished the gifts I wanted to make. I finished sorting a variety of jewelry to be sent off to ladies I love. I have most of my gifts to give my grandkids. I went to the post office and mailed off gifts. The post office was not crowded. I was totally in the holiday spirit. I am grateful for the ability and energy to do things that made me happy.
After my success at the post office, I decided to try and eat some Mexican food. I went to my favorite fast food place. I have not eaten there since being diagnosed with IC. I did not have the salsa, nor the sour cream. I had beef hard shelled tacos with lettuce and cheese. I had taquitos sans the sour cream or salsa. I was in heaven. I hoped the food would not cause an IC flare. I needed to treat myself. Happily, there has been no flare so far. I have been flushing my body with tons of alkaline water to help fend off a flare. I am grateful for the ability to give myself a treat I have not had in seven months.
I came home and took a much-needed nap. I am still having nightmares even during daytime naps. My subconscious is playing out scenarios in very sad ways. I am grateful that the unhappy events are not my reality. I am doing all I can to move forward safely. I deserve joy. I deserve to be happy. I am celebrating this time of light and miracles.
Today marks the winter solstice. It is the shortest day of the year. I am grateful that we are heading toward more light filled days. Tomorrow is the first night of Hanukkah. Hanukkah is a celebration of light and miracles. While it is cold and damp outside, I am seeking joy by celebrating the good things in my world. I am grateful for the good memories of past Hanukkah celebrations.
This year Hanukkah will be very different. I will still do my best to give meaning to each of the days. I am grateful for always learning more and enjoying more about my heritage. No matter what is going on in my surroundings, I am grateful that I can find reasons to celebrate.
I am enjoying doing a mitzvah each day. I find happiness in doing so. It is difficult to be in a sullen mood when you are looking for opportunities to do good deeds. I am grateful that G-d has given me so much. I trust as I move forward, I will find more joy and less sadness. I am grateful that Hanukkah begins tomorrow.