Years ago, I read online a Pearl Jam-related post where the writer theorized that the song “Corduroy” was about being a vampire.  I don’t remember how I came across the post, but it set out a line-by-line analysis of the lyrics, along with supporting evidence  of why they were vampire related. I didn’t necessarily agree, but I admired the effort.

I heard Corduroy on the way in to the office the other day.   It’s one of my favorite Pearl Jam songs. (Figured out the name of the blog yet?).   Maybe it’s because I watched a vampire mockumentary recently (“What We Do In the Shadows”….picked by my 13 year old), but I suddenly remembered the Corduroy vampire theory.   And strategies for 2016 clicked into place.

Before the chaos of the holidays hit, I thought I had it figured out.  2015 had brought a lot of changes, and it was busy and draining.  The holidays would be filled with what seemed to be the perfect combination of travel, family, and down time.  Things would be fixed.  I expected to return in January, refreshed and energized.  Instead, I was as grumpy and irritated as I had been before Christmas.

And then Corduroy came on, and I realized the problem.  2015 had been a vampire.

Things that I love and that fuel me were relegated to the background in 2015:  Running around Green Lake. The mountains.  Live music. (“Inside Wright Wrist (or Navel), Please”)   And, of course, sitting at a coffee shop, working on this blog.  They were replaced by new routines that are rewarding and exciting in their own way, but also draining. Like a vampire.

And so, sitting in my minivan on Highway 99, I decided that, instead of expecting the turn of the calendar to magically fix things, I’m putting new strategies in place. This year I will make sure to replenish with the things that fuel me. I started by getting together with a dear friend for a glass of wine, and by writing this blog post.

It’s been a good start.  So far, 2016 hasn’t “sucked” (get it?).