Dear Sparkling Friends,

I understand that for some, it is late to be wishing a Merry Christmas or a Happy Hanukkah, but this year, I’m trying to be gentle with my heart. I’m also encouraging you to go easier on yourself, too, and simplify. We decided to incorporate new rhythms with family this year, without our beloved mother at the head of the festivities, and feel the sweetness of just being. So much of our lives, we’ve rushed to get it all done for our dear guests with big parties and fabulous games on Christmas Eve. But this year, it made much more sense to take it slowly. 

We’ve never been a materialistic family, but we’ve always loved a handmade gift or a gift that fits in our hands. So, combining our simple loves, we tried Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition where folks exchange a single book with one another on Christmas Eve. Then, with hot cocoa and book in hand, each curls up by a lovely fire (it could be a candle, too) to read their new book—not aloud, just in a puppy pile of yumminess. It was heaven. We read until we grew sleepy. I can’t recall the last time I didn’t stay up all night wrapping gifts as I, Mrs. Claus, usually do. I slept and slept in! Novel. In more ways than one!

While we had traditional cinnamon rolls and delicious coffee this morning, opened our stockings, and were blessed to share some delicious home-cooked food for Christmas supper, we’ve not opened many gifts yet. Only the gift of time so far. We’re resting, checking in with friends (yes, that’s you), for a change. Quick chats with family members celebrating elsewhere have been lovely, too. Now, here we are, on the eve of Boxing Day, when we are encouraged to regift presents and visit friends and family; we’re not rushing into tomorrow to do any of that. Today, my daughter Ruby told me that I was listening to the season and “wintering.” Yes. This. I am wintering.

But if you feel the pull to do what some of the more worldly world seems prodded to do, I encourage you to consider regifting yourself the present of your peace. What is the most important gift you can give to yourself? Can you spend time with your heart? Might you find time to walk in nature or write what your heart is feeling? Can you give yourself the gift of gratitude to simply be alive when the world is again feeling tender with winter’s wash? I hope so. Wintering is resting, too.