IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR

The holiday season reminds me of those people-mover sidewalks in airports. I hop on just before Halloween, hold on for dear life, and somehow wind up in another year. Camera phones are lifesavers when it come to nailing down memories. Without photos, I might think I’ve dreamed the whole fast-paced holiday.

Years ago, I felt miffed at retailers for marketing holidays too early. In my mind, they were missing the beauty, the spontaneity, the magic that comes with waiting for the last few days. Or some sort of similar drivel. Now that I have matured and lost a bit of my own spunk, I’m grateful for their heads up.

For Christmas, I have pulled myself through the knothole of expectations and allowed myself to do the best I can with the warmest of intentions. My family has restructured their celebrations, consolidated friends and family groups, and simplified the gift-giving for—the adults. For the kids, it is all fun and indulgence. The best part. The changes have helped to make the celebrations manageable.

Recently, I read a post that spoke to me. I wish I had noted the author. It started out with Charles Darwin’s words about survival of the fittest. But then added something like, in reality, it is survival of those who accept change. Our lives change, situations change, everything is easier if we roll with it.

Whatever you celebrate during this busy season, let’s be easy on ourselves.  Nothing must be perfect. Enjoy the best parts, the people we love and enjoy, the music and traditions, and good food—our love languages.

Peace and love to all,

Corliss