A Season of Light, Love and Remembering

December is filled with sparkle. Holiday songs, the scent of gingerbread cookies, peppermint coffee and hot cocoa mixed with the smell of sancocho, roasted pork for rice, beans and sofrito (salted onions, garlic, cilantro, peppers and fresh tomatoes). 

During the holidays, you may notice that your grief is more present than ever. Give it your awareness and know that  the energy of your loved ones is very near and their love is the brightest light of all reaching you anywhere you are.  

Treasured Memories

This season reminds me of beautiful memories with my late husband, Ed, playing the guitar and our daughter Kaya, singing "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Ed loved Christmas.  One of our sweetest traditions was baking his mom Sharon’s gingerbread boy cookies.  I can still smell them.  

Ed is no longer with us, in the physical sense, but his love never left.  It lives in my memories, in music and in the quiet moments when I still feel his presence. 

If you’ve lost someone, maybe you feel that same bittersweet ache. During the holidays, grief can feel closer than ever.  So light a candle, say their name, and play their favorite songs. Just take a moment to celebrate them in a way that feels right to you.  I usually say a prayer and light a candle. 

I really enjoy the month of December! Usually at the end of November at the beginning of December, Mike and our daughters take all the Christmas decorations out and start to decorate our house.  Mike usually plays holiday songs and in no time the decorations are up and the Christmas spirit is all around.  I make a warm meal with some hot cocoa for the girls and hot tea or coffee for Mike and I.  Usually, this month we take time to visit or invite over to our house my side of the family. On the 25th we have dinner at Papa Mike and Nanny’s house, Mike’s parents.  

Twelve Green Grapes

December 31st is usually a quiet day for just us. We get ready to receive the New Year by eating 12 green grapes, one for each goal or wish for the upcoming year.  We also write our goals. It's sweet, simple, and sacred.  

What do you do in December? Any traditions? 

Is there a way that you celebrate your loved ones who are no longer in the physical form?

What do you do to close the year or welcome the new one?

I welcome your comments and would love to see those nostalgic, sweet traditions you celebrate!