I got a number of gifts this year that I am particularly fond of. Chocolate (of course!) and a lovely holiday-themed centerpiece for our dining room table. And this cat lamp from my older son that has different color modes.

I also got some hand-knit coasters and socks from my supremely talented sister-in-law Anne. Aren’t these beautiful! The socks are made from a yarn that is a combo of wool and bamboo. So comfy. . .

Definitely this makes it tempting to spend a good part of 2017 sitting by the changing rainbow glow of the cat lamp, drinking hot chocolate, and admiring my feet. But lest you think I’m never going to move again, here’s what my younger son re-gifted me (he got these in a family gift exchange and decided they were not for him).

I’ve already done run-throughs of the video workouts that came with both of them, and decided that I need to add in some of the exercises on a regular basis. I haven’t used some of my upper body muscles in a while, and I think it’s a good time to start up again.

I originally thought of giving this post another title: “I thought I was fit, but I was wrong!” But there is so much darkness in the world these days–so many losses this year, and particularly in the past few months. Better to put aside negativity, snarkiness, and self-criticism for a while.

‘Tis the season to be Jo-lly! Fa la la la la, la la la la.

I am thinking of all the ways in which skating makes me feel kind, happy, and peaceful, and helps me to see good in the world. Will try to post again very soon!