Tradition-
If any of you have read any of my previous blogs or know me personally- you know this is a subject close to me. I am a very traditional person and have roots with parts of my life that run very deep. I think to some, looking at some of these things which I am rooted to would seem trivial, perhaps a bit superficial, and even a bit odd. So be it. I have along with the people in my life, a deep connection to and attachment to things and actions.
Tradition is there as I still keep in contact with several of my childhood friends, college friends, post college New York friends, and past neighbors. I still write letters and send birthday cards (although my memory is a bit taxed in the past two years or so), still love to make homemade Christmas cards and send a picture of the kids (they hate me for it) and count as my most favorite moments those which are shared with old friends, siblings and of course, my kids. I have belongings that will never ever leave my side-momentos, books, furniture, jewlery that has been loved for many many years by members of my generational family. I was sorting through many things this past weekend and realized that such items are not just stuff or things- they are a part of me. I know some may disagree and say we should not allow ourselves to become attached to material things. I don’t love these things, however, because they create a persona, gain superficial and social respect or because I “need” them to make me whole. I love them because they are me as they are a part of my story, a part of where I have come from and part of those who have loved these things in the past. They make me feel I belong to something more that today and that I have stories and memories that are important and can continue on to my children and their children……
I also love the events and behaviors that are traditional for me. Waking my kids every morning and bringing them breakfast (I know, you are struggling to believe that one), allowing one “outside” dog at a time in the house as they become the oldest and in need of extra TLC. We have done this three times and sadly are about to follow this tradition again as Maddie enters her last weeks with us. I love watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” for the first time every Thanksgiving night, watching “I love Lucy” whenever I cook, and Sundays in the winter, in the kitchen with a classic old movie, making a comfort food dinner to enjoy.
Traditions- they only have to make sense to you and that is what counts. However, the richness of those traditions deepens with every loved one, friend and even sometimes stranger, with whom you share them.
I hope as we enter the holiday seasons and all the traditions that we each have- you will find someone new to share them with and grow deeper those special memories.
I would love to hear from everyone, their favorite traditions of the holiday season. I would love to hear of some of your special meals, creations in the kitchen and family gatherings. Look for my email newsletter next month for some of my favorite holiday meals- maybe even a story or two!
Stop in on December 1st for some home cooking and the first run of “Its A Wonderful Life” fp the season!!
