Failed Originality

It is better to fail at originality than suceed at imitation.
Herman Melville

As life becomes sated with rich memories and noteworthy experiences, priorities once deemed crucial start to decay into feeble limbs of pruned inconsequence.
Contentment, joy, and hope vigorously burst forth and bloom.

Self reflection peaks at an all time high during the anticlimactic days that follow the holiday rush each year. Too many edible indulgences, living out of a suitcase, extreme temperature changes, placating family tensions (for the half-pint: not enough naps) are paid for with a physcial and emotional labyrinth of fatigue. But it's all worth it...

Our days were spent traveling, planning, hosting, and rushing from one place to the next, but we were joined by family and friends. I lost count of the times I saw that look of magical wonder in the eyes of my daughter, right down to her fascination with a young cat named Petunia, or as she liked to say "Poo-tuna".

Has this become a sappy reflection about the lessons I've learned about my daughter during the holidays? You bet.

• She dances no matter where she is if she likes the music.
• She insists we "hold hands" even walking down our hallway from her bedroom.
• She must act out the "great big hug and a kiss from me to you" every time she sings the Barney song.
• She enthusiastically greets each family member/ friend as if she hasn't seen them in years, even if its been a few minutes.
• She is fascinated with all God's creatures, big or small, soft or slimy.

Contentment, joy, and hope vigorously burst forth and bloom.