Christmas Time

Dear Friends:

It’s time for my Christmas letter, this time reflecting on the season with just a few days left in the month. The sun is slowing cresting on the horizon with our late mornings in this northern land, glowing a gold color into the house making my Christmas decorations slightly more magical (if it’s even possible). I’m listening to Greek radio but they are playing a mix of Greek and English music: I know we’ll meet again don’t know where don’t know when. The singer was joined by a chorus that sounded more like a group of friends. I am hit with the feeling of “I am not alone” and it’s wonderful. The song is not very seasonal but it definitely feels historic and moody which suits me just fine this moment.

My cup is full of delicious dark roast, sweetened with honey. I’m sipping and typing. Listening and thinking. This Christmas I’ve spent time counting my blessings. I’ve had a busy month but more than ever I’m okay with it. I am healthy and happy and glad to be able to do what I need to in this safe and good place. It is not lost on me that not everyone has the same safe experience that I do.

I have gifted my body with delicious foods. The usual fare —turkey, yams, stuffing, cabbage rolls. And the more cultural fair: tourtiere, cheese pitakia, baklava, and lasagna. We are a multicultural family and it shows on our table. I’m grateful for all the tasty morsels that I devoured. I know so many do not have the same good fortune to have a warm meal. And the tables I sat around! Surrounded by such loving, kind and generous people that I love and that love me. I have a joyous village.

I saw the Holiday Train, and a Christmas Light experience out of town where we met the sweetest man, who we are sure is Santa Claus (opening his yard covered with millions (I’m not kidding—millions) of lights to the public for donations to the mental health ward at the hospital. He has volunteers. Gives gifts to the less fortunate, is happy and generous, and only operates at Christmas. Santa for sure!

I baked and shopped and wrapped and decorated until my home felt cozy and the spirit of Christmas was within it. I helped whoever requested something from me and made time for my friends for laughs and stories. I exchanged gifts with the little people in my life and received a bounty of gifts that I could eat, burn, or wash down the drain. My minimalist heart was thrilled. My partner and I gifted each other an experience of an NHL game. Our team lost but we still had fun. I prayed quietly for the health and happiness of those in my life and for blessings in our collective future.

I sit in the blessings of my life and wonder why did I get so lucky? Why was I born where and when I was? Why did some doors open for me that maybe didn’t open for others? I’m not exceptional but I am grateful. The song on the radio is Non, Je ne regrette rien by Edith Piaf. It feels fitting. The room is brighter and the sun is higher.

I’ve squeaked in several long walks and two hikes in the tall and golden grass. There has been no snow this year and although snow is a big part of the seasonal experience I have let that go and accept the gold strands beneath my feet.

May you and yours have a beautiful end to this holiday season. May you be blessed with love and health and happiness.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

And, as always, thank you for reading lovelies.