As part of
our Holiday tradition, we put up the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving.
It’s looking at the Christmas lights that motivate me. When my sons were
younger they would help decorate the tree, adding beads, bulbs, and ornaments
they made at school.
Although my
sons are grown now, the tradition still continues, it just looks a little
different. I’ve learned to keep it simple. I asked my older son to help me drag
the Christmas tree box from the basement. This also meant hauling out the tote
containing all the ornaments (ribbons, bulbs, beads, bells).
“Why do you
have so much stuff,” my son asked.
“Accumulation.
At least it’s organized.”
It didn’t
take long to assemble the pre-lit tree, but it was days before I returned to
add ornaments. It was then that I enlisted the assistance of my younger son to
help decorate the tree. He is known as the negotiation of the family.
“I’ll help
if I can have flavored candy canes, and gingerbread,” said son two.
“You can do
it for the bonding and family togetherness, and I’ll consider the gingerbread.”
Well, I did
make the gingerbread, and the Christmas tree is decorated with the ornaments
and candy canes. I spend a little time each day sitting in stillness (reading, or
writing) and admiring the colorful lights.
As you
prepare for the Holiday season choose to do something simple that brings you
joy. Little things can provide bug joy.
What tips do
you have for keeping the Holiday season simple?
