Looking Back, Looking Forward

Que the obligatory "reflection" post. This will likely be short, don't worry.

2012 was a fairly eventful year for me, when I really think out it.  I did suffer a few losses and heartache (the major one for me being the family dog, Tira). It's still weird to go to my parents' house, and not hear her excited barks and hear her nails clattering on the floor by the door as I walk up the steps. I can't help but get a little choked up, even now, thinking about it.

I stood by my best friend as she got married, celebrated, and share some pretty great memories with her, and my other best friends. My reign of Maid of Honor ended, and I'd like to think I did a fairly good job. I planned and Engagement Party, Bridal Shower, and a Bachelorette. They all worked out well, and I'm pleased as punch!

My fiance and I moved into an apartment that's has some ups and downs, together just the two of us, for the first time. We also welcomed a new member into our family shortly after, Monster, Scott's dad's kitty. He adapted to indoor life better than we could have hoped for, and has been amazing. I can't imagine coming home and not seeing him there to greet me now.

After five years, I finally moved to a new department, and thus far am loving it. I'm learning new skills, meeting plenty of new people. I couldn't be more excited for this change. 

As time winds down, more wedding planning for my own wedding was needed, and we managed to book a nice venue, and I went for my first round of wedding dress shopping.

We met with a financial planner recently as well, and with his help next year, will get our crazy financial situation under control. 

2013 of course, will be jam packed with more wedding work and planning. Soon begins the traditional wedding diets, so that we can look fabulous on our big day. We're getting married in under ten months now!

I hope to lead a more structured life as well, planning and keeping myself and fiance well organized.

Bahari Haunt will be seeing the release of monthly art collections. Cute, simple prints and merchandise. I will also be stepping up on my commissions. 

I also aim to see friends more often, maybe hosting some movie and/or game nights in my home. Once per month would be lovely. I love my friends, and I really don't think we see each other enough.On a similar note, I need to spend more quality time with my husband-to-be, as while I see him most evenings, and usually  full day a week, it just doesn't seem like enough. I think a monthly date night may be in order.

I'm pretty sure I say this every year, but I am seriously determined to make 2013 the best year yet. Bettering myself, my relationships, and I hope to maybe even get my foot in the door for a more career oriented position. I've got plenty of goals and dreams, and part-time won't get me there.

Happy New Year (and if you missed it, Merry Christmas!), my friends!
~Jenicsaco

Christmas Shouldn't Be Offensive

I recently read something where someone was greatly offended by a Christmas movie they watched, because they weren't Christian. This movie, had no religious connotations whatsoever, really. Okay, it was Polar Express. You know, the 3D animated movie where a kid gets on a train to see Santa Claus. Not Jesus, not some big Christian birthday party, or what have you. 

I think I need to clarify that I'm not writing this to be offensive. While admittedly religion makes me uncomfortable, I'm becoming more tolerant. So, don't hate.

I can understand people disliking the over-commercialization of the holiday. I can understand not celebrating for religious reasons. I don't understand however, how some people can get so offended over something that isn't religious.

Not everyone who celebrates Christmas is Christian. I'm not, and it's my favorite time of year. The holiday has different meanings for a lot of people. For me, and I -think- many other people, the holiday is less about the birth of some guy named Jesus, and more about the 'spirit' of the season. The warmth, and joy. The giving (and to a small degree, receiving. I can't lie. ), the family and friends, spending time with all of your loved ones. It's a great excuse to gather everyone you love under one roof and just have a great time. Yes, I know you shouldn't need an excuse, but it's difficult to find a time when most people are even available for gatherings, now isn't it? That's what Christmas is to me, at least.

 I don't think religion should ever be flaunted, but since it is still a big part of the holiday for some people, I'll respect that. I don't have to like it, or really even approve of it, but I'll respect it all the same. So long as someone doesn't tell me I'm going to Hell for not sharing the same belief, we're cool. You keep your beliefs to yourself, and I'll do the same.

If anyone is interested in the origins of Christmas, Britannica has a nice, fairly short little post about it. Enjoy!
And yes, this is super early...but considering the content of this blog post, it feels appropriate.
http://www.britannica.com/blogs/2011/12/origin-christmas-december/

I wish you all a safe and joyous holiday season! Enjoy the company of your friends and family, gifts that you give and receive, delicious food and treats. Revel in the beauty of the falling snow, if you're lucky enough to have it. And of course, stay safe!

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Joyous Kwanza , Happy Chanukah, 
~Jenicsaco