Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree.

December, how did you get away from me? I had big plans. Lots of parties. Lots of fitness. Lots of fun.

Then I got sick. Really, really sick.

It started off as a simple cold. I decided to skip a fitness challenge day to recuperate. One day turned into several. I missed a party and Chris Hadfield at the Toronto Public Library in an attempt to get better.

It didn’t work.

I did go to one party after a few days of this — which was at my house. The next day I woke up, feeling disgusting and voiceless. I thought it was a hangover and forced myself to go to work.

It was bronchitis.

I missed four parties because of this bronchitis. I missed 20 (!!!!) planned workouts. I lost my voice and got pinkeye. Bronchitis is disgusting, people. I have never felt so gross. But I did get to watch the rest of Scandal and some of The Good Wife. And I got an obscene amount of sleep. Silver linings.

Getting better has been a slow process. I still have a cough and a sore throat and produce more mucus than any normal person should, but I feel relatively normal. I’ve given up on fitness for the rest of the month. I don’t want to relapse again. I want to get better and stronger for 2014. After all, I have a marathon to prep for. 2014 is going to be a good year. December is almost over — it’s time to look forward.

Happy holidays, everyone! I hope you were all safe and warm and surrounded by loved ones.