It has been a while since I played along in Cee’s Share Your World Challenge, so I thought I was due. And since it is the holiday time, my blog has been all off schedule anyway. So, here goes…
What is your favorite holiday?
This is tough as I love to embrace each holiday’s special wonder. But, I think I will at least narrow it down to the last few months of the year…
Veterans Day is normally a solemn reminder of deployment that make me more appreciative of my current freedom. It also has become an annual challenge in completing a half marathon in honor of a fallen hero.
Then, there comes fall/Halloween/Thanksgiving. I know this clump of holidays is broad, but to me, it is really a three-month celebration. Come September, I break out all the autumn decor. The house gets decorated with pumpkins, leaves and turkeys. When Halloween is over, Jack-o-lantern decorations get turned around to become regular pumpkins for Thanksgiving. The cooler weather calls for a bonfire where we can make smores and drink cider. Oh, and making black bean, pumpkin chili has become a staple. Then of course, there is traditionally a gathering of friends and family for a Thanksgiving meal, which is made while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Thanksgiving weekend is also time to welcome in Christmas. The decor of the house all changes from fall to winter. A Christmas tree is put up and decorated. Little snowmen and lights adorned various parts of the house. And generally, tis the season to bake, and I love baking.
What types of food is associated with your holiday?
When I was little, Christmas meant cookies and candy. Not just any cookies and candy though. Christmas was specifically defined by no bake cookies and cinnamon hard-rock candy. I have made them every year in my home too. Now, my kids look at them as holiday treats as well. I guess it is safe to say, a tradition has been made.
Do you travel for your holiday?
During my last part of the year holiday blitz, I do a little bit of travel. Sometimes it is just in the local area to explore what is around me. It never fails that I am surprised by all the amazing places I can fin within hours from my home.
Other times, it it is somewhere more exotic and romantic, which is perfectly ok with me too of course.
Is it a religious or spiritual holiday?
I cannot really separate those two things really. Now that I am truly working at being “present” in my life, I am more aware. I look at things now with more of a spiritual appreciation. And when I see things that way, I cannot help but give thanks to God for all the blessings he gives me. So, they are tied together.
Is there a gift exchange?
The only direct gifts happen over Christmas. However, the whole end-of-the-year-holiday blitz is full of giving. Veterans Day is full of giving thanks. I try to send out little reminders to my Army friends, letting them know how much they mean to me. And between Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, I think I give out out baked goods and meals that I could probably take it as a tax deduction, lol. Yet, I really enjoy the joy of sharing and seeing the happiness it brings others.
How long does the celebration last?
Well, like I said above, my holiday blitz is typically from September to December. I mean why limit it to just one day?
Optional Bonus question: What are you grateful for from last week, and what are you looking forward to in the week coming up?
This last week, I was grateful for my romantic vacation to Jamaica. The weather was perfect. My company was adorable. And, our return home was safe and pleasant. What more could a girl ask for?
This week, I am looking forward to some time with my loved ones. My sister and I plan on hanging out and baking up a storm, making smores, and watching some silly movies. Then, my dad, sister and boyfriend are going to enjoy a few meals together and exchange some presents for Christmas and Hanukkah. I am also planning on wandering around some Christmas decor to take some pictures. So fun, food, family is to come:)
May you all have a wonderfully happy and peaceful holiday too!
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