How was Christmas and New Year for everyone? I find these days (3 years post stroke) that social occasions take it out of me. I’m ok watching a TV or film for 2 hours or so (all one ‘way’ of course) but all the meeting of relatives over the festive period really drains me. It’s the ‘two way’ thing. So the brain is doing more than just being passive. Listening to the conversations and responding (hopefully sensibly). I’m normally ready for bed around 10.30 but these events went beyond that – I could hear my inner voice asking ‘when are they going home?’ or ‘when can I go home?’. My wife understands this and can often see the eyes glazing over and ‘takes over’ in the conversation. Having said all that, I managed better than I thought. Especially NYE when the games came out. I can get very competitive! Perhaps the old stroke brain is still improving!
The way you summed up Christmas, is perfect. I am sure I am not the only one who can relate to your description.
Christmas & New Year was quiet for me. I too suffer like you in social situations. As it happened our usual Christmas visitors went away this year which took the pressure off a bit.
NYE hubby & I stopped in. Had a few snacks, saw the fireworks on tv (surprised myself staying up that late) then went straight to bed.
We must be patient and be prepared to wait or so I am told.
What is you waiting for @Bobbi ? It’s almost 12 months waiting now for next crimbo. Easter is next, all that choccy, you wont have to wait long, it’s probably in the shops already, if not it will be come February. Easter Sunday in 2025 falls on 20 April, 2025, you can have eggs for your birthday! 
That feeling when your brain mists over. I know it’s early days ( stroke 30th Nov) but like to see friends, then after about 45 mins just know I’ve had enough really but so enjoy the company (my OH has some cognitive impairment but even before that not a talker. Fortunately we mostly forget different things!!!)
I used to love family Christmas, but what with Covid and Stroke it has sort of faded away. Nowadays it seems to start in October and go on and on. Then suddenly its over and all about holidays in the sun. I’m so used to being disoriented, it would be strange if I wasn’t confused and befuddled.
This year, though, it all seemed to be something to dread.
I rather fancied finding a cave somewhere and hunkering down, bear-like, for a long sleep until winter’s cold and darkness were gone and spring sprouting into life again woke me up.
Anyhow, we went and had Christmas day with the family. The food was good and it was fun.
I need to get back in my cave to dream and doze, though. Despite all the talk of warming, it’s too chilly to chat.
keep on keepin’ on
