Traditions mark this time of year, passed through the generations from distant memories to right now, sitting on our couches and around our tables.
We decorate a tree, though it isn't real or natural, like the one we planted in my parents' yard every January. It's pretty, though, and it reminds me of the first holiday my husband and I shared in our home, before little hands and voices chased one another beneath the branches.
Besides, Charlie Brown taught me that it's not the tree that matters, but what you put into it. And ours is brimming with love and every ounce of fun the kids had dressing it up.
We baked around a million cookies, taking after my mom's holiday spirit, though we chose different kinds than we made as kids.
They're still delicious, and the toddlers had so much fun decorating them that they didn't even notice I saved theirs into a separate kids-only pile... Because we have enough germs this time of year, don't you think?
My husband and I shared a special dinner tonight, fancy homecooked steaks that would have broken the budget on a typical evening. It's a far cry from the Christmas Eves of my youth, those jovial, wild dinners and secret santa gatherings crammed around my grandparents' table with all my cousins.
They're different kinds of special. One for then, and one for now.
And that's what the holidays are, aren't they? A little bit of then, a little bit of now.
A chance to connect with your loved ones, past and present, through traditions and a spirit joyous enough to permeate the coldest nights or the most difficult times.
It's a welcome bit of light in the midst of winter's darkness. Find your people, and let it in.
Wishing you and yours a warm and happy holiday.
...and to all a good night!
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