Whether snow or rain, sunny or overcast skies, artificial or candlelight, it is people and events - not seasonal weather - which create holiday memories.
While I recall shoe boxes left on the hearth that were filled with treats, candlelight services which enable spiritual moods, and the smells and sounds of holiday feasts, it was people and their events which made everlasting memories. So, for 2015, it was the celebration of our 50 year anniversary with friends, family and neighbors - link to video - http://youtu.be/_TjT6qrJD-Y and a scheduled annual Nags Head break - link to video - http://youtu.be/9YDtKgHd-4c which created milestone memories.
Yet, annually I attempt to make repeat events a tradition. For examples, using my Mother’s sifter, recipes and cookie cutters, dozens of sugar cookies are created for the holiday. During the harvest season, tucked into the freezer are loaves of squash and pumpkin bread; and stored on shelves are jars of bread and butter pickles. Goodie bags packed with preserved summer harvest await the addition of newly baked cookies. Then, one by one these bags are distributed to family and friends, alike.
Handmade decorations mixed with crystal snowflakes sparkle in reflected lights. Wrapped packages blanket a holiday tree. And, on Christmas Eve, we gather to host an early opening of shared cousin gifts.
After singing carols, carrots are placed outside in anticipation of visiting reindeer and a plate of cookies and cup of milk are placed by the hearth for Old Saint Nick. Eventually, excited but tired by pre-celebrations, children are early to bed. Then, on Christmas morning as my Dad said, “A time when Santa turns over his sleigh” – presents of all shapes and size await the awe of a child’s delight. So, whether in the form of heirloom recipes or crafts, traditions old and new blend – creating for others, the memory of people and events become an anchor for our holiday memories.
Still, nature – seasonal weather - can provide the gift of a relatively storm free year combined with gentle rains producing wonderful growing seasons. As a result, yearly projects for example English walnut and cherry trees are added to my Noah Ark orchard – one or two plants as required. And, to encourage others to ‘dig in the dirt’, I update and publish eco focus books.
While for my family and I, it is a year of loss and adjustment, we still create new and reflect on fond memories. So, hopefully, you did experience a blessed year and will for the holiday season, join in a prayer for peace on earth, goodwill towards all man-kind. Be thankful for the opportunity to create and celebrate holiday memories.
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