A long time ago, in the middle of an average day, in an average week, while I was doing average things, my husband showed up unannounced, with a buddy and an upright piano.
I remember those habits.... I remember also how all of that splendor turns into humdrum.... As the years go on and on, and kids have moved out and started Christmas decorations of their own... And fewer people are there to see all that labor that you put into your tree... I know, I know... We always say that we're going to do it no matter what.... But.. Don't be surprised if one day you find the same joy in a little, sparkling tree...........about four feet shorter.... The habits that used to control us are controlled now by us...not so bad...Merry Christmas..
Point(s) taken, Barry. We downsized a bit this round, not entirely by choice. I'm open to a change of heart in the future, but for now, I'm hanging tight to this ritual. :)
It is a Force, but you sing my carol here - loud and clear. Lifetime of mismatched ornaments is right on. Your every word resonates. It seems we are in good company. Peace.
So much of this one had me saying out loud- YES! ME TOO! Your empty nest is our good fortune- see you Christmas Eve for lots of hugs, love and sharing of “not quite as grown as yours” daughters! ❤️❤️❤️
This rang a bell with me. After many years of probably “overdoing” holidays I find myself appreciating the calm of a more minimal approach. We have gotten to the point that the best gifts are simply spending special time with each other. Happy holidays.
We're dialing back. But, just as I held fast to the tradition of making pasta sauce this summer (in greatly reduced quantity), I'm not ready yet to bid farewell all the holiday fanfare. Hope all is well, Janet!
Put the tree up every year, for yourself. I agree with Barry, though, smaller is not so bad!! And I love that red bear...he needs to breath and dance a little every year....Merry Christmas!
Love this…….our tree is filled with broken ornaments made when kids were in nursery schools!
I too am a creature ofhabit and love predictability and routines! The thought of no tree or a tree on a table gives me hives! I think somehow equate those images with “giving up”.
Divesting, condensing, combining as these days evidence changes, additions, new chapters. Challenging but invigorating. I cherish my small 3 foot " family " tree with small wooden ornaments representing each and every member, new and old.
Some day we may divvy out the bounty. Meanwhile, we find joy in the way our lives are woven through the many trinkets on our tree. Thank you for sharing, Susan.
I remember those habits.... I remember also how all of that splendor turns into humdrum.... As the years go on and on, and kids have moved out and started Christmas decorations of their own... And fewer people are there to see all that labor that you put into your tree... I know, I know... We always say that we're going to do it no matter what.... But.. Don't be surprised if one day you find the same joy in a little, sparkling tree...........about four feet shorter.... The habits that used to control us are controlled now by us...not so bad...Merry Christmas..
Point(s) taken, Barry. We downsized a bit this round, not entirely by choice. I'm open to a change of heart in the future, but for now, I'm hanging tight to this ritual. :)
It is a Force, but you sing my carol here - loud and clear. Lifetime of mismatched ornaments is right on. Your every word resonates. It seems we are in good company. Peace.
Peace. What a perfect bow to tie around this topic! Thanks, Courtney.
So much of this one had me saying out loud- YES! ME TOO! Your empty nest is our good fortune- see you Christmas Eve for lots of hugs, love and sharing of “not quite as grown as yours” daughters! ❤️❤️❤️
It will be our great pleasure to spend time with you and yours. Thank you, Carrie!
This rang a bell with me. After many years of probably “overdoing” holidays I find myself appreciating the calm of a more minimal approach. We have gotten to the point that the best gifts are simply spending special time with each other. Happy holidays.
We're dialing back. But, just as I held fast to the tradition of making pasta sauce this summer (in greatly reduced quantity), I'm not ready yet to bid farewell all the holiday fanfare. Hope all is well, Janet!
How lovely & perfect timing as we try to create new Xmas habits in the new family formation!
Yes! Filling in the spaces with our new normal. Looking forward to seeing you in the process. <3
I found myself relaxing with he bear for an extended time. I may return. Thank You. Tom
Please do! Return often. I can't think of a more delightful idea. Thanks, Tom.
Betsy,
Put the tree up every year, for yourself. I agree with Barry, though, smaller is not so bad!! And I love that red bear...he needs to breath and dance a little every year....Merry Christmas!
We're definitely shrinking the level of responsibility - but we're keeping enough to hold fast to the joy of it. Hugs, Carolyn!
Love this…….our tree is filled with broken ornaments made when kids were in nursery schools!
I too am a creature ofhabit and love predictability and routines! The thought of no tree or a tree on a table gives me hives! I think somehow equate those images with “giving up”.
Ah, a kindred spirit! There may come a time when it all becomes too much, and I want to remain open to that. But, for now, I'm all in.
GIMME the BEAR! So cute
He's a heart-stealer, for sure. Thanks, Stephanie.
Divesting, condensing, combining as these days evidence changes, additions, new chapters. Challenging but invigorating. I cherish my small 3 foot " family " tree with small wooden ornaments representing each and every member, new and old.
Some day we may divvy out the bounty. Meanwhile, we find joy in the way our lives are woven through the many trinkets on our tree. Thank you for sharing, Susan.