Holiday cheer

Holidays came and went like a tornado. But instead of debris, it left pixie dust filled with happy memories. I visited my folks in CA again this year, but unlike the past two years, I was on PTO (not working remotely) and hell-bent on completely ignoring all work emails. Although not entirely successful with the emails, I can say that this year was the best holidays I've ever spent with them in a long while. Family getaways leveled up. Food and drinks were consumed in insanely copious amounts. Family dramas abound. I like that Andy, Olivia, and Ryan can now carry some grown-up conversations. I am glad that the Auties have gotten off their high horses and come to their senses. I have never been happier to see everyone's authentic side (no matter how unpopular or disliked it would be) and maturity to resolve misunderstandings and accept outcomes. 

Perhaps my overwhelming joy came from having little expectation. Other than preparing the pasalubongs, I did not contribute much to the planning of activities. I know that we will be going around downtown LA for the museums, shows, and shopping. I know that there will be at least three birthday parties and two family dinners. I was informed that we will stay two nights at Santa Catalina Island and four nights at St. Helena. All those boxes were ticked and then some. My wallet was drained, but my heart was full. It's a good trade-off.

I now see that I approach holidays like how I approach life. All in and all out. It is hard to do it any other way. My parents are now old. My sisters and I are all living far from them. We do not want the next generation to grow up not spending time with their cousins, because our generation knows how that felt and turned out. After the pandemic, I now consider holiday gatherings as a privilege. Why not indulge in holiday cheer while everyone still can?