Home for the Holiday (4)

First and foremost, take time this week to reflect on all that you are thankful for. While there may still be lots of activity going on preparing for Thanksgiving guests and meals, step back every now and then to just breathe and observe the joy that surrounds you.

The weekend after Thanksgiving is when we tackle the daunting task of taking down the holiday decorations and deciding what goes up this year. This is also a good time to check the lights and replace broken bulbs or strings that aren’t working.

One of the first decorating tasks at our house is in preparation for St. Nicholas Day (in the Dutch tradition) on December 6. Over the years I have collected all sorts or St. Nicholas and Santa Claus decorations so those are the first to go up. We also carry on a tradition of having each family member draw a name and give one small gift that is representative of the person receiving it, either serious or humorous. And then we either have a Dutch influenced dinner or corn chowder and hot and fresh assorted breads and cheeses.

Now is also the time to check your calendar for upcoming events and be sure to give yourself time to prepare for each one. Any special clothing or food required? And remember our goal for a peaceful holiday season means that you don’t have to make or do everything yourself. Maybe your gift to yourself is to get help with the daunting list of chores. Or perhaps you give yourself permission to take the store-bought dessert to the next party.

Remember, this is a time for peace and joy.

Until next time…