Oh Zoe, you're so right about the buzz we're in and the stillness we seek. I might eventually adopt your strategy too..... (..and I wish I had come up with this great sentence of yours to describe my grandmom in my latest substack: "....are probably following a tight battle plan like a French general from the last century"). Happy Holidays to you!
So glad to hear that you have found what works for you. For myself it’s best to take long breaks and myself out of family gatherings and especially out of everything commercial about these days. Winter makes me tired and a little fragile. Since I am taking better care of myself I enjoy all the lights :)
That is wonderful thing, that you get to enjoy the lights because of the boundaries you’ve placed for yourself. It’s important.
The pressure of Christmas makes it seem like a chore. And the commercialism and capitalist marketing takes away the spirit of what its essence is. It’s a time to give love to your close ones, thanks for the year that has passed and to rest in preparation for the year ahead. You don’t need endless shopping and overindulgence to do any of those.
his really hits home! It’s comforting to see someone say out loud what so many people feel but rarely admit — that the holidays can be heavy, not magical.
The idea of stepping back instead of forcing cheer feels oddly freeing.
I even gave Christmas a nickname: Mission Impossible! 🤣
You made me laugh Alix:) an impossible mission became possible again for me cause I’ve slowed everything down. The slowest. Nothing loud and forced and the smallest circle. I’ll never ever let the Big Bang of it crash my spirit.
My dear Zoe, you are right but I truly miss the Hugh family gatherings for these types of holidays. When I was home in California, the joy the chaos and the excitement of being with my loved ones was priceless. All joined together from their own lives and feasting on the food prepared by Grandparents, Mother Auntie’s, Sisters, Fathers Uncles etc. All under one roof, Backyard or park. Sharing stories, playing games, laughing together. Wow. Good times!
Oh Zoe, you're so right about the buzz we're in and the stillness we seek. I might eventually adopt your strategy too..... (..and I wish I had come up with this great sentence of yours to describe my grandmom in my latest substack: "....are probably following a tight battle plan like a French general from the last century"). Happy Holidays to you!
You know who used to be this general in my house :) retired for good 😂✨
This is so me. I've been ghosting since 2016 and it's one of the best things I've ever done for myself.
So glad to hear that you have found what works for you. For myself it’s best to take long breaks and myself out of family gatherings and especially out of everything commercial about these days. Winter makes me tired and a little fragile. Since I am taking better care of myself I enjoy all the lights :)
That is wonderful thing, that you get to enjoy the lights because of the boundaries you’ve placed for yourself. It’s important.
The pressure of Christmas makes it seem like a chore. And the commercialism and capitalist marketing takes away the spirit of what its essence is. It’s a time to give love to your close ones, thanks for the year that has passed and to rest in preparation for the year ahead. You don’t need endless shopping and overindulgence to do any of those.
Love this Zoe 🫶
Thank you from the heart Dear 💕
his really hits home! It’s comforting to see someone say out loud what so many people feel but rarely admit — that the holidays can be heavy, not magical.
The idea of stepping back instead of forcing cheer feels oddly freeing.
I even gave Christmas a nickname: Mission Impossible! 🤣
You made me laugh Alix:) an impossible mission became possible again for me cause I’ve slowed everything down. The slowest. Nothing loud and forced and the smallest circle. I’ll never ever let the Big Bang of it crash my spirit.
Hey Zoe, sorry, I just saw your comment!
Yep, this Christmas made me feel a bit MIP, but you handled it really well -slowing things down.
You can actually “slightly” enjoy the process of getting ready for Christmas!😃
My dear Zoe, you are right but I truly miss the Hugh family gatherings for these types of holidays. When I was home in California, the joy the chaos and the excitement of being with my loved ones was priceless. All joined together from their own lives and feasting on the food prepared by Grandparents, Mother Auntie’s, Sisters, Fathers Uncles etc. All under one roof, Backyard or park. Sharing stories, playing games, laughing together. Wow. Good times!
liked this strategy Zoe, thanks for sharing
Happy Holidays