Me and My Siblings at Christmas
Every Christmas I drag out this great picture of myself and my brothers and sister and the other one of me hanging my stocking by the fireplace. I must have been about six or seven but I smile every time I pull this out of the holiday season decorations box. The memories it brings to mind are more valuable to me as each year passes.
It got me to thinking…what other traditions do we have at this time of year?
Well, for me, it’s important to have my car winterized and stocked with things like blankets, extra warm clothes, booster cables, windshield scraper, rock salt or cat litter (in case my wheels get stuck), a shovel, water and dried food or canned food (don’t forget the can opener), flashlight and a first aid kit.
Because I live in Maine where the lights go out if someone passes gas, it’s important to make sure I refresh the batteries in my flashlights and battery powered radio, keep a stack of blankets handy and because I have a pellet stove, I always replace the batteries in my carbon monoxide and smoke detectors this time of year. And like in the car winterization scenario, bottled water and canned food. A friend of mine from Canada suggested wine would be a good addition too but I’ll leave that up to you, dear reader, to decide!
What are your holiday traditions? I’m always looking for new ones that will help bring the true meaning of the season into my heart. Traditions like a visit or a phone call to brighten someone’s day. This can impact someone’s life in more ways than you can ever imagine! Offering to help with holiday shopping or wrapping presents, writing out holiday cards, helping to replace worn cane tips, making sure shoes or boots have good treads and that they’re removed when inside so slippery puddles don’t come about. These simple acts of kindness can be a blessing for those who have visual or physical challenges. Share holiday music and goodies with a neighbor who’s alone.
Are we all busy? Yes! Are we crazy with things we need to get done? Absolutely! But our “to do” lists continue whether it’s the holiday season or the middle of mud season here in Maine! “Tis the Season” to be jolly so make a conscious decision to take a moment to help out your neighbors, family and friends. You will find the feelings you get in return are more than jolly!
Have a very Merry Christmas and in the words of Charles Dickens, “God Bless Us, Everyone!”
Cheers!
Marcia Wye, CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist)