getting back to traditions....

My plan has been to write a journal every day, but I've been super busy with my family. I've literally been out and about all day today. My mother in law is down to visit and we have been having the best time out shopping and browsing. It looks like all the holiday merchandise is out already. There are actually a lot of pretty things to look at.... I was watching people as they were choosing gifts and decorations today and I was feeling kinda envious as they looked so happy doing it. I've really gotten away from taking pleasure in the little touches that make things special over the holidays......and today I'm feeling that somewhere along the way... over the years, I have forgotten how delightful it can be around this time of year.

I'm starting to realize how important certain traditions are to my family. I believe that certain events that we look forward to each year help keep us together. It seems like the families who make conscious effort to come together at certain times of the year to celebrate, are the families who stay together and are happiest.

I'll be the first to admit that I have always been the one who is the big 'Grinch" every year, but maybe I just didn't understand the meaning behind the celebrations. It's not about religion. It's not about the gifts or the fanfare. It's simply about enjoying each other. Sharing our happiness together.....sharing our precious time together. Life is short, so we need to enjoy every moment of it.

The holidays are just around the corner. This is usually the time of year that I dread. I've decided that this year I will embrace the holidays as an opportunity to show everyone that is close to me how much I love them. I'll make time to visit those that are important to me and I will start the tradition of celebrating 'family and friendships' this holiday season. Somewhere along the way I have forgot how to enjoy all that the winter season has to offer. I'm trying to reconnect with that part of myself.

I'm looking at the little things now in a slightly different light. December can be a beautiful time of year.......and whether you call it Christmas or I call it Yuletide, it doesn't matter. What matters is the love we share together at these times of our life.
...................maybe I need to build a snowman this winter, or take a sleighride. What do you think?

Maya xoxo