Rather than grand parties, fancy clothes, and exciting excursions, it will be a holiday season of simple pleasures. If we all take a few minutes to think about life, I'm sure we can identify simple pleasures that bring life meaning--the kind of pleasures that lift our loved ones and us up.
Morning coffee
I simply adore my morning cup of coffee. We buy the beans we love the most, grind them, and make the coffee. Every morning, I enjoy a delicious cup of hot coffee while I read and write. I love it!
Family phone conversations
Like me, my close family members love to talk about life's events. We plan, ponder, and analyze together via multiple phone conversations each week. I look forward to these conversations.
Home decorations
I've spent more time decorating the home for the holidays--it is a welcoming, warm space and the decorations bring me a sense of peace and happiness.
Good food
I've spent extra time learning about and preparing good foods for the family. For example, yesterday morning I made a pot roast that cooked all day--the house smelled great and when family members were hungry they enjoyed a delicious meal.
Exploring local lands
There are countless nature trails to explore.
Gift preparation and card writing
Since we'll deliver or mail most gifts, we'll have to create those gifts earlier than later. I like to create/purchase small gifts that I think people will enjoy.
Contribution
Finding ways to contribute to others' well being brings great joy.
Reading, writing, watching films
Access to these simple pleasures with more time is a silver lining of this pandemic
So this holiday season will be a string of simple pleasures for self and others rather than any kind of big celebration. That's the way it is and we have to make the best of it.