THE HOLIDAYS

For many this is the time of the post-holiday blues. For me, the holiday climax is just 2 days away. There's so much preparation for the holidays, it starts just after Halloween. Then BOOM! one day and it's over. My first husband was raised in the Russian Orthodox Church. I was raised Roman Catholic. After our children were born, I began studying the Orthodox Faith, and converted. The traditions of the Orthodox Church are unique and indescribable. I love my Church, I love my Church Family, and I love Jesus Christ. I would not have gotten through the hard times without HIM. My first husband passed away too young. The children are grown. I now have a wonderful husband, Charlie. We've been married it will be 2 years this spring. Yes, you can find love, again. I am very blessed to have a multitude of wonderful people in my life!
When I say that the climax of the holiday is 2 days away, it means that we will be celebrating the Nativity of Christ on January 7th. This is "Russian Christmas" as so many people call it around here. I've been preparing, like everyone else. The cookies are baked, the turkey is thawing, the presents are bought and wrapped. I celebrated with my "western" friends and family. We exchanged gifts, and I spent a lovely December 24th at my mother's house with all my nieces and nephews.
I feel blessed that my Christmas doesn't last one day. On January 8th there will be feasting and caroling. I'm having a party on the 9th. By the time I take the tree down, I will be ready for it to come down. But as the end of January approaches, and February and March continue to be full of winter's cold and dreariness, the post holiday blues don't have to set in for anyone.
Here's some tips: Have a party for no reason, just to get together with friends and family. Take a vacation to someplace warm. Mexico, Florida, or Puerto Rico are only a few hours away by plane. Even a long weekend will thaw out those cold bones. Start a new project; learn a craft. Knitting is always a favorite of mine in the winter.
But don't forget, our calendar is full of holidays and the Church Calendar is full of Feast Days. There's always something to look forward to. That's the key. Look forward! Don't look back.
I have a busy 2009 in store for me. We're taking a cruise to the Panama Canal. My daughter is getting married this summer. I just retired and have so many projects and things to do, I think I'll be busier than when I was working.
I'm also very thankful and grateful to my husband that I am able to take a early retirement. And winter doesn't last forever. Spring is coming soon!