christmas is an unusual time for me, both horror at it's suddenness and irritation at the all consuming nature it has taken on. both feelings could be traced to several factors: too many years working retail to be thoroughly disgusted by the time december finally arrives; the small selection of thematic songs which are repeatedly played in every store, tv commercial, radio station, and supermarket, year after year; the constant reminder of being surrounded by family (painful if you're not able to be); the fact that work in my industry is slow and paychecks small during these months; and the driven consumerism that the holidays entail. one weeks celebration is fine, if each holiday stays in it's own month i would have zero issues with this one in particular. all of which combines to make one want to hide out in a part of the world where christmas doesn't exist (until the craziness subsides).
but, come the week of christmas, i am happy to be cheery and bright, put up small decorations, and cherish gift wrapped packages under a tree (however unusual). happily, though i was far from family, i had a lovely day and received even lovelier gifts!
Happy, healthy and fiber-y new year, Anastasia
ReplyDeleteI am so with you on all the excess commercialism! We're always thankful when the day itself arrives and the madness can be left behind. (we didn't even decorate this year - partly in protest to the extravagance of the season. Love the day, loathe the rest. If only we didn't need to endure even a hint of Christmas before December! You have a wonderful attitude about making the best of it. I love your tree! Perfect.
ReplyDeleteBlessings on your New Year!
jean- and also for you! happy new year!
ReplyDeletewanda- yes, it's come to that for me, as well. i'm to the point where i'm just going to celebrate winter solstice with food and family, and just a few presents as a way of thanks. have a fantastic and healthy new year!