According to the Chinese zodiac, 2009 is the year of the Ox. I assume they chose this animal because it represents power and strength. However, when I think about an ox, I think of a hairy, smelly beast. Yeah... a beast. That's exactly the word that comes to mind when I think about how 2009 has progressed so far.
A beast.
Let me explain why...
2009 has been in existence for six short weeks. 47 days by my calculations. In that short span of time, my immediate family has experienced: a case of the flu, 2 confirmed cases of pneumonia, and a suspected case of strep throat. (I go to the doctor tomorrow.. we'll see). This has resulted in 6 doctor visits, 4 x-rays, and at least 5 prescription drugs if my memory serves me correctly. (Of course, that total does include a nuisance doctor visit to retrieve a bead that my son stuck in his ear. But, it was a doc visit!). 7 total doctor visits if you count tomorrow, and another possible Rx. If I sit here long enough, I could equate a dollar value to the co-pays, co-insurance and Rx totals. However, that would depress me past the point of no return, so I'm not going to do that.
Speaking of money, let's talk about our jobs. I have missed so many days - again, I don't want to total it up because it would depress me. My husband has already used most of his vacation days in his attempt to overcome pneumonia. 6 weeks into the year and it's gone. I guess we're not going anywhere this summer. Though, I guess that might make a nice essay.. "how I spent my vacation" (hack, cough, hack)
So, 2009? You win. I give up. I surrender. I am waving the white flag here. 6 weeks into the year, and I'm done.
What's scary is that the more people I talk to about my battle with 2009 - the more I hear of similar stories. Others who would like to declare this dreadful year over with already. Is the Ox that scary?
Here's hoping that the next 6 weeks brings better weather, better health, and better finances. To all of us.
