Something’s been in the air lately and no one’s quite sure what it is. Some sort of end of the millennium introspection has been going around and more than a fair share of barking at the moon. The holiday season always has a way of frazzling your last nerve. With all its hustle, bustle, expectation, anticipation and all the related stress. Then of course there’s always the whole end of the year thing, end of the old, beginning of the new, New Year’s resolutions—all that hoo-hah. And this year, my meager grasp on humanity tells me, it just seemed to be much more so. Don DeLillo  would have speculated it must be the result of some “Toxic airborne event.” Blame it on what you will. The end of the century, the end of the millennium, the Y2K computer hysteria, Armageddon—Apocalyptic fixations or just that big ole full moon on the winter solstice. Craziness has abounded. Let’s just call it the end of the millennium blues. When the holiday parties finally end, there’s always a little post traumatic stress  disorder or just some plain general malaise. What to do?

First and foremost, take care of yourself, treat yourself.

Get a good night’s sleep. There’s a reason they thought up that 24hr waiting period on the purchase of firearms, it’s all about a good night’s sleep.

Go to the beach. It’s just outside the door. It’s light therapy  and it’s free.

Get a massage. It’s not just good for sore muscles and poor circulation, it’s good for the soul.

Get a pedicure  or a manicure. Available all over town and very reasonably priced. Don’t scoff boys—I’m sure you need one too! Nothing sexy about dirt under your fingernails and this is a flip-flop town, we can see those toes.

Take a nice long stroll down the beach or anywhere. A little fresh air always clears the head and enjoy those vistas we are so lucky to have here. When you drive down the same roads everyday its easy to stare straight ahead and forget to marvel at the view, don’t.

Take in a sunset. The beauty of the sunsets here can soften the hardest of cynics.

If you’re not a tourist, set aside a day and be one. If you are a tourist, enjoy yourself immensely.

The holidays always seem to encourage great introspection, sometimes in the most unlikely places at the most unlikely times. Don’t let the end of the millennium blues get you down. The world didn’t end and the future looks bright indeed. Enjoy.

-January 2000