Time to Share Some Cheer

We are all in need of some cheer to brighten our days. Thank goodness the Christmas season is upon us to give us a much-needed lift. Once the Thanksgiving holiday has passed, and our body has recovered from the big dinner, it is time to get into the spirit.

After giving the house a good cleaning, the fun begins. Although we know what our boxes and bins hold for decorations, we always open them and smile as we rediscover the memories that each one of these treasures hold. Slowly and carefully we place each one in their special spot. 

We save the best for last, setting up the tree for decorating. Once we have it perfectly placed the ritual begins. First the garland is wound around the branches near the lights so it will sparkle as they twinkle on and off. Next come the bulbs; shiny glass ones, hand carved wooden horses and sleighs, and precious ones made by our children. When our task is complete, we plug in the lights and take in the masterpiece we have created.

Some of us will put decorations outside, while others put candles in the windows. We will go out once it gets dark just to see the beauty shining from within. The pictures we take will be shared with family and friends with hopes that they will bring them joy.

Spend an afternoon with your children baking your favorite holiday cookies, cakes, and pies. There is nothing better than the smell of fresh baked goods wafting through the house. The delicious aromas bring back memories from childhood, and you will be sharing a great tradition with your children.

No matter which Christmas movie is your favorite, you will be sure to find it on at least a few times during the month of December. To really get in the spirit there is nothing better than spending a day binge watching Christmas movies. There are several networks that show holiday movies all season long; so, relax, make some hot chocolate, and enjoy.

With luck snow will arrive before the holiday, and children will spend time making snowmen and sliding down hills. Great family fun out in the fresh air; a wonderful way to give them memories to last a lifetime. Perhaps a new sled or snowshoes will be the perfect gift this year.

We all know this Christmas will not be celebrated in the same manner it usually is. We all want to keep our family safe and healthy so most will keep their gathering small. If we are lucky, we will get to see each other in smaller groups. Perhaps it will take two or three different small events with family that is close by. For those far away, online video chats allow us to "gather" and see one another; just fix your plate and sit down to share a meal.

Yes, this year will be different, but we can all share our Christmas spirit and joy with those we love. Hold the ones in your home close, have video calls with the ones far away, share your holiday pictures, watch your favorite movies, make your favorite cookies. Spread holiday cheer any way you can to brighten someone's day.









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