This holiday season was one of the most relaxing I've had in years. Purchasing gifts was achieved in one day with only one loud "discussion" with the husband in the aisles. Unlike years past, we did not have to travel this year, which was wonderful. My brother & sister-in-law came down, and I was able to spend several hours with both my father and brother reminiscing. Now that a was a Christmas gift! Friends, family, and the husband showered me with gifts that will bring me happiness in the coming year, and the joy of spending time with friends always brings a smile to my heart during the holidays. One gift that did not come in a box, but I still treasure, was seeing a friend (who has historically not enjoyed the holidays) infused with the holiday spirit. Christmas Eve was spent quiety at home with the husband and the critters, and yes, Rock Band was involved! (There was new downloadable content!)
As for New Year's Eve, we broke with tradition, deciding not to plan anything special -- kind of a "let's sit back and see what happens" attitude, as we are the event planners in our circle of friends. As we predicted, nothing was planned, and we happily spent the evening at home, where we played Rock Band, watched movies, and just enjoyed each other's company. At midnight, we uncorked a lovely bottle of champagne (you do indeed get what you pay for in champagne!) and stood on our front porch watching the fireworks show the neighbors put on. Quiet but enjoyable. We watched movies together until 4 am, snuggling on the couch, an indulgence we engage in all too litle in recent months (but I'll correct that *wink*).
Something I sometimes forget is that I really do enjoy the simple things in life, like spending a holiday at home. It is so easy to enmesh myself in the bustle of the holidays and overplan. This holiday season reminded me again of the simple. Yes, a New Year's Eve celebration with friends would have been enjoyable, but reconnecting with the simple joy of celebrating a quiet New Year's with the husband and the critters revived my inner being. That is something for which I am truly grateful.
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2 comments:
That sounds like a wonderfully relaxing way to spend the holidays and recharge your spiritual batteries.
I always enjoy hearing how grateful and mindful you are of your good fortune in having a loving family and friends. It's something far too many people take simply for granted. And I agree that within that simplicity you mentioned can be found the true spirit of the holiday, with it's time for reflection and just day to day easiness and laughter with family.
It was nice not to have a bustling holiday for a change. :) I truly do consider my friends & family a gift, one I am blessed to have.
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