My grandsons, Rowan and Sawyer trimming their tree last year.

I love the nostalgia of the holiday season. There are many different celebrations in December, one of which may reflect your own heritage and belief system. I grew up in a small farm community in Oregon. My father was a minister at a community church, and our traditions were rooted in Christian beliefs.

I still remember our church youth group being transported by a tractor-drawn wagon filled with hay bales to go Christmas caroling throughout our rural community. I recall making popcorn balls and pulling taffy. I also remember trimming our Christmas tree with colored lights and tinsel—each strand hung individually, as my mother insisted.

I’ve come to realize that what makes those memories so special is the time spent with family and friends. There was a sense of wonder and celebration, along with the comforting security of ritual and tradition.

My husband suffers from dementia. As his memory fades, for him, all that’s left is the here and now. There is a simplicity and happiness to being in the moment—a sense of wonder and the ability to experience joy without fear or anxiety.

This year, no matter what holiday or traditions you celebrate, I wish you wonder, and the gift of time spent with family and friends.

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”

—Quote by American author Hamilton Wright Mabie — 

We love our brave soldiers and we are so happy when they are able to return home to their loved ones!

Thank you for all you do!

November is National Native American Heritage Month. Let’s celebrate and honor our Native American friends!