So it's January and I'm finally emerging from my cocoon. At least for a little while. I've got some posts already written, and some to write - books I've read, recipes, thoughts on the new year. I just haven't felt much like sharing lately, and I've been busy enough that some things have needed to slide. Many evenings I don't even turn on the computer, which may sound crazy but has been kind of nice. Although I do miss my online friends, if not the time spent keeping up.

This month so far has been a bit of a mixed bag for me. Just like January a few years ago, I lost my ability to sleep for awhile there and am just starting to build it back. And just like last time, I'm learning some lessons in the process, lessons I'd much prefer to learn during the daytime but apparently some things are only taught at 3:00 am. For example, I learned that counting blessings works better than counting sheep. Also, I was reminded that having my husband's arms around me not only sets my heart aflutter but is often the only thing that can calm my pounding heart.

And smack dab in the midst of that low moment, a high point. It was announced that a grant proposal I wrote for work has been awarded. This was a huge deal - it's for nearly a million dollars, and I spent pretty much all fall working on this. The stress was overwhelming and success was not at all guaranteed, so I feel very grateful, and gratified. I think it's okay to say that I'm damn proud of myself.

I've also been remodeling our living room, tearing off the wallpaper, patching holes, and painting. There's symbolism there, just like in cleaning out the fridge. There's a moment when you stand in the center of the room and take it all in, and that's the only way to know what needs to be done. I'd gotten so used to the peeling patch of wallpaper by the door (thanks, Simon) that I almost didn't see it anymore. For me, entering a new year also calls for a moment of stillness, a taking stock of things. And then I can take action to improve the space around me. And at every level, I think life comes down to that. Improving the space around us, bettering whatever it is that we touch.