Holidays always bring good and not so good...
 

emotions over time. Remember when you were a kid? And your only worry was WHAT Santa or whoever would leave for you that you really wanted.
You know? I still have a beautiful red wool sweater my brother gave me when I was 14? And, it still fits! Wearing it brings back some of those simpler memories.
So many of my friends and family have died around this time of year, so Mrs D, I truly understand. Also thanks for the hint about upping the Vit D! I've GOT TO do this!!!
Deb? This IS the time of year for optimism and crying, Cycleops and Deb? It IS allowed around now. Don't be shy about it all.
Mel? Just enjoy what ever can bring you some joy!
At times like this? I remember my holidays when my parents lived in the Caribbean. Going from blustery snow, cold and wind to sunny skies and clear blue waters - waking up to see the Tall Ships sail into the harbor from afar puts you into a different state of mind. Not to mention the Spanish Galleon! Was lolling on the beach one day and a bunch of parachutists landed almost on top of us! The poinsettias there are maintained as large hedges, and 10 foot aloe plants were painted silver and strung with lights in the front yards. Not to mention the steel drums playing Carols in the Cathedrals! And, the buzz of hummingbirds on the porch flower baskets. It keeps me warm on cold days. Hope it all does the same for you?
We may all be in different places or situations, but there are good things to remember that can help make you happy. HAPPY to all!!!! :grouphug:'s - j

I think I could handle the tropics.

My father-in-law died on Jan. 2, 2003, and oh my, how we miss 'grandpa'. My mom has Alzheimers and does not know me. Fortunately, I have a wonderful 88 year old aunt who has stepped in as a 'matriarch' of our family. I do know all these wonderful people, especially those who have passed on, want us to remember the wonderful times we had with them. Never the less, I am so sorry for those who lose loved ones at this time.

Holidays are hard on every one in one way or another. My oldest just broke up a 5 year relationship...darn guy had commitment phobia...she has a biological clock ticking. We know in our family, some one is always hurting, and some are very happy....It is a delicate balance.

MRSD--- I think the crystal ball is one of the coolest gifts. I would love one. It is actually really a meaningful gift for the times we are going thru right now.

If your friend likes things like this, she might like this website too.

http://www.fourmilab.ch/cgi-bin/uncgi/Psiclock

Summer solstice for the other half!
 

It may be winter solstice for some of you but it is the summer solstice for us and we're loving it! Bathing in lovely warm weather and some rain to moisten the earth!

Outdoor Christmas events under balmy skies and seafood aplenty!

Just another perspective!! Hehe!

Celebrate the reason for the season.
 

I join in the festivity of the holidays to be with family and friends but i celebrate the birth of my savior Jesus. Years ago he saved my life so i beleive and witness to people ever since.

Try it and you may be surprised and happy.

George

Chanukkah is the 'Festival of Lights'.
It celebrates the time when the Temple was besieged and there was only enough oil to light the altar for one day. By a miracle, the oil lasted for 8 days - hence, the 8 day festival. It is customary to give gifts & money (and those gold foil, chocolate coins) every day, of the 8 days. The holiday started Saturday (21st) at sundown and lasts until the 29th.

Eight days and 8 kids....that is 64 gifts...good thing I have a Santa in my life....LOL....it is also good that I have NO credit cards.

Happy Holidays, Ho, Ho, Ho....Oy vay!

Yaaaay!!!
 

It means the days are getting longer again and my SAD eases and leaves pretty quickly once solstice is reached. :)

My SAD leaves pretty quickly once the Solstice is past as well.