Holiday closure means storing those outdoor lights and all inflatables. It means bundling your paper, gift bags and tags into a central spot for next year. And it means a lull in cooking and cleaning the kitchen. And it means a break from choosing a mall or turning to inter net browsing for finding gifts.
Now we return gift choices or cash in gift cards.
But family memories and repeated traditions kept the spirit of the season alive once again. Enjoying family visits and seeing good friends add zest to our holiday. Now we can rest up and wish we hadn’t indulged in so many homemade cookies and candies.
Thanks to the community for the annual display of lights in town. We always hear positive comments from out-of-town visitors. The work and planning for the live nativity downtown was halted by Mother Nature. Weather warnings were focused on the surrounding area. But the good news is next year. The plans were made, with the stable constructed and personnel in costume. The churches will try again.
It looks like that very warm stretch has ended and cold temperatures will remind the Miami Valley that it is now officially winter. Winter in this area means basketball and both the boys and girls are winning again. You can leave the cold behind and enjoy a bag of popcorn and good basketball. Check the Tri-Village web page for schedules and information.
Time for new resolutions. You can think about visiting one of the games at the school, stopping by the library or visiting someone who is home-bound. A visit, call or card are much appreciated by those who can’t get out. On a long snowy day you might try a recipe that you clipped from a magazine or you might clean a closet and donate unwanted items.
Winter has its own rewards like time to try something new. And my hope is that 2016 will bring peace and respect for one another. This year has flared with horrible acts of hatred across the globe and here in the United States. May the spirit of respect lead us to a year filled with goodness and bright hope.