The most awaited time of the year is here again. This time is magical, and keeping your holiday traditions alive is important as it makes the season feel festive and complete. Try to make the most of the holiday season by spending quality time with your family and friends.

Every year, we try to go to our local downtown area during this season. There are Christmas trees lining the street, multicolored lights, family photo booths, a glowing skywalk overlooking botanical gardens, and jazzy holiday music playing in the background. It gives one the feeling of being on the set of a Hallmark movie. We wait for the Thanksgiving season to pass to start decorating the Christmas tree at home with lovely ornaments and decorative lights.  At times, we would go for drives after dinner just to see holiday displays at houses or we would go for a drive through Christmas light displays near us.

Sometimes we watch holiday movies while sipping hot chocolate and munching on popcorn. Some of the favorites include Home alone, Miracle on the 34th street, Polar Express, How the Grinch stole Christmas, Klaus etc.  I look forward to every Christmas morning just to see the excitement and enthusiasm on everyone’s faces as they exchange gifts and unwrap them. I try to make traditional dishes for holiday meals as it helps to keep our culture alive. We also send food to our neighbors and friends so they can partake in our holiday celebrations.

While we are enjoying this festive season, we must also be mindful that there will always be people who are going through some kind of stress at this time. There might be people experiencing financial difficulties, job loss, loneliness, health issues, loss of a loved one etc.  Remember to be kind and extend a helping hand whenever you can. Let us transform this season to a time of genuine caring and compassion. As we head into the joyous season, I wish you a great time of happiness and holiday cheer!