It's a feeling of lightness, a joy that overcomes any problems or burdens. For me, songs can be a trigger. Songs such as We Need a Little Christmas and A Marshmallow World.
It's a feeling that makes you want to reach out and hug the person closest to you, even if it's a stranger on the street. Sometimes, when I am Christmas shopping on my own, I get this little shiver of excitement when I know I have found just the right gift for someone. Happiness like that should be shared! (and it will be again, post pandemic!)
It's the deep sense of contentment when the "halls" have been "decked".
It's the awe of strolling through a winter wonderland, each twig and pine needle sparkling with the diamond sheen of hoarfrost. Does this even come close to the awe the shepherds felt looking upon the manger?
(Head Chef developed a recipe for a deliciously warming martini that we have been enjoying regularly. 2 oz. bourbon, 1 oz. apple cider, 1 oz. sweet vermouth, 1/4 oz. orange juice, 1/4 oz. Cointreau)
(A shout out to Pat at Mille Fiori Favoriti for the inspiration and recipe for this Pumpkin Buttermilk Pound Cake. FABULOUS!)
It's looking after critters, as they try to survive through the cold and deep snow.
(The chickadees know that I am a source of food. Every time I leave the house when the feeders are empty, they will fly up to me and scold me for my lack of attention. The video above was taken immediately after the feeder was re-filled - my goodness, what a flurry of activity!)
It's a feeling of warmth, a glow that radiates from within. Cold can't penetrate it; world news can't put it out. The Good News prevails.
I pray, as 2020 draws to a close, that you are in good spirits, be they tied to Christmas or another tradition. From my house to yours, I wish you lightness, joy, comfort, contentment, awe, delight and warmth.
