This Time of Year

What do you notice This Time of Year?

I notice the cold crispness in the air. The smells in the morning. The fog hanging overhead. The busy-ness of the season. The decorations. The hot chocolate. Mulled cider. The muffins. Soups.

I love this time of year!

What do you hear This Time of Year?

I hear Holiday music. Laughter. Sighs while waiting in line. Children's excitement. Voices of family many miles away.

What do you watch on TV This Time of Year?

We watch all of our favorite Holiday or Christmas movies--some old and some fairly new. I tune-in to Hallmark, because I want programs and movies that are uplifting.

We watch some of the music programs.

What are the aromas or fragrances you notice This Time of Year?

I notice the comfort fragrances: Turkey or ham cooking in the oven. The pies, cakes, and cookies baking and the aromas of each mixing with other fragrances. Fire in the fireplace. Live Christmas tree. The wreaths. The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger aromas.

What are you aware of This Time of Year?

I'm aware of all of the above, but most importantly, I'm aware of how blessed I am to have caring people in my life, people who love me and whom I love. To have what are considered the basics: food,clothing, and shelter--which many people don't have. (I'm a social worker, counselor, wife, mother, and grandmother who values all people, and care when people do not have "the basics.")

What are your memories of This Time of Year?

Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother's house we go. Actually we went to both sets of grandparents. Then later having family and friends come to our home. The aromas, the music, the laughter, the conversations, the breaking of bread together. Not all of my memories are happy ones, but the happy ones are the ones I choose to focus on. They make my life more enjoyable.

What are you thankful for This Time of Year?

Oh my gosh, when I actually pause to think about what I'm thankful for, it becomes a very long list: Good health. My husband. Son, Daughter-in-law, and two precious grandchildren. My step-son and his girlfriend/life partner. Extended family. Friends near and far. And everyone, including you, who touches my life in some form or other. I am so thankful.

May your heart be filled with love and light This Time of Year.

To Your Courageous Self!

Edie Savage-Weeks

Transformational Life Coach

ediesavageweeks.com