SurvivingInfidelity.com^®

I started a thread about this last year; I really needed a sign that things were going to get better. It was the first year I'd spent Christmas without my oldest child, and it was so depressing. I just wanted to see a light at the end of the tunnel, literally and figuratively. Pandemic-wise, while we're better than we were last year, at least those of us who have chosen vaccines/boosters do still see a light at the end of the tunnel. So I guess I shouldn't be surprised that my diligent watching of the calendar hasn't been as intense this year. We get to have our daughter with us, and she's just begun her second trimester of pregnancy, so we have wonderful new things to look for.

But, I DO look forward to seeing those sunsets inch later into the day!! This past week I had a procedure at the dermatologist's office - called Levulan Photodynamic Therapy. It can treat several conditions, but I had it for the sun damage and pre-cancerous spots I have on my face from all those sunburns I had as a child and early adulthood. It's not considered a cosmetic surgery, but can help with tone and texture. Anyway, I had it done on Thursday - after the treatment I had to cover my face and head with a scarf and wide-brimmed hat to come home. Once I was home, I couldn't go outside until yesterday morning, unless it was after dark. So Thursday and Friday, I took short walks after dark, which thankfully, was as early as 5:15. So I can't complain too much about the early sunsets. I have another treatment in a month, then a third one a month after that, so the shorter daylight hours play into my favor for now.

I'm looking forward to longer days as well! I'm in the same situation you were last year, first year without my eldest son here for Christmas. He moved out of state, and he and his gf had a baby girl in October so that's something to be thankful for. My first grandchild, a girl!....have three sons and two brothers so am thrilled to finally have a little girl in the family.

Unfortunately, we have had to put our Christmas plans on hold, the WH is living/working in TX (I'm in NJ). My middle son is living in TX as well, son got Covid this past weekend (fully vaccinated and boostered), so we will be celebrating Christmas on New Years Day. A bit bummed but fortunately my youngest/fiancee are here, a much watered down version of our original plans.

Hope you have a wonderful Christmas! Good luck with your treatments.

[This message edited by annb at 5:57 PM, Tuesday, December 21st]

I am with you on hating the early darkness. I HATE It.
But this is a time of renewal and growth, a time where we can focus on our needs and rest.
And, like healing from infidelity, the days will get brighter a little bit each day. Hard to see on the days themselves, but as the weeks start to add up suddenly we have measurably longer days. So magical and wonderful!

Happy solstice!

Sunset at 4:48PM today. Tomorrow at 4:49PM. I'll take the extra minute!

I replanted some of my containers/pots that sit on my front porch steps this afternoon. Enjoyed being outside!

Happy solstice!