On a happy Thanksgiving evening after weeks of planning, cooking and carving, my first thought was:
“I am too worn out to decorate the house and transition to Christmas this year. All that work for just a few weeks until 2026 comes bounding in. I will take a minimalist approach and forego the tree, the wreath, the decorating and shopping. Who needs all that work?”
After a good night’s sleep, I wake the day after Thanksgiving and realize I do! I would not give up all the “work” for anything. I love the seasonal changes but dread the darkening sky at 4 p.m.
History tells me those gloomy, dark hours of December’s late afternoons can be offset by the twinkle of holiday lights, a sip of eggnog, a bite of the Christmas cookie, the beautifully wrapped gifts, a greeting card from an old friend. These are the familiar touches that provide calm and comfort.
And perhaps there is time to plan a few more meals to gather friends and family. I can wait until January to hibernate and rest up.
More Christmas
A Christmas memory, ever so strong
A not-so-vintage Christmas tradition
Yes, I’m listening to Christmas music
Even in exhaustion, festive lights and little moments bring life its greatest comfort. Warmest wishes.
An artificial tree went up at my house this year, the first of my life. I had no role. That’s how the season has evolved since the days we cut a cedar in the back field of the farm. It’s sad, but I should take comfort that I didn’t have to crawl around on the floor tightening screws.