There is something comforting about traditions, especially around the holidays. I grew up as an only child, and all of my extended family lived on the East Coast. I didn’t have many big family gatherings growing up, and my mom liked to keep things small and simple. When my parents split when I was a teen, my desire to create bigger celebrations during the holidays was a way of coping. I created huge teen cookie decorating parties, “Friendsgiving” before that was a real thing and l learned to cook and create all sorts of holiday meals, some amazing, and some definitely in the “Pinterest don’t” category. But my love for holidays grew exponentially, and my dad put up with all of it.
Watching the Today show this morning, I see they have already lit the holiday lights on the stores in Manhattan. I think it is a few days early, not only for the hope they ring in the customers this holiday season despite the pandemic, but also to spread a little light and joy during this challenging time. COVID is at an all-time high here in the United States, and it seems we don’t have the will to stay inside anymore. They keep talking about “COVID fatigue”, that we all just want to go back to normal and unfortunately millions of people are still traveling, still having large family gatherings, and still fighting mask wearings and any shutdown regulation. It seems we are headed for a continued surge of illness and death. That is the reality and the backdrop of the holiday season this year, which is why I think my desire to keep up with the traditional food and decorations in my own home is even more profound this morning.
We can’t have the big family dinner this year, and we can’t invite friends and family in for the holidays like we usually do. But I am finding ways to connect and continue some of the things we do. Today I am making a round of baked goods, muffins, cookies, and creating plates to share with family and friends. I sent Thanksgiving notes to my students, not something I normally do, but it just seemed necessary to connect now, and again next month with the traditional Hanukkah and Christmas cards and treats. I’m getting out the fine china, cooking an entire turkey dinner, and decorating the house even though there will be only a few of us here. Why? Traditions matter. The idea that the world may be crazy but there is this continuation of the familiar helps me cope, and even thrive. Returning to this blog I think is nostalgic, reaching out to all of you from connections long ago. May we find each other again.
Take today to find solace in what makes you feel connected. Make that phone call, text an old friend, set up a Zoom session. Me? You will find me in my kitchen, cooking up holiday joy. Find your joyful place.
Grateful for you.