Our holiday season was rather somber with memories of this year's losses of beloved family members and friends. These last two months of the year were a little shrouded with a memorial service and funerals.
We didn't even put up a Christmas tree. I just didn't have the energy and since I'm usually the one who initiates the decorating at our house, the tree remained in the box. My sister-in-law, Nancy was rather surprised not to see the tree in its usual corner.
A couple of days ago, Art's good friend and classmate, Morris dropped by with a smile and a kadomatsu for the new year. I've written about this custom many times before, but Kadomatsu for Mom probably explains it best.
Funny thing about that kadomatsu from Morris...
Every time I pass it in the living room it reminds me of the promise of the new year. It reminds me that I need to get up and start cleaning the house and getting ready for our new year party which will be on the 4th since that's the first date where everyone can get together.
It reminds me that there are adventures waiting, children and grandchildren to visit, friends to hang out with and life to be lived. Oh yes! It's going to be a great 2016!
We didn't even put up a Christmas tree. I just didn't have the energy and since I'm usually the one who initiates the decorating at our house, the tree remained in the box. My sister-in-law, Nancy was rather surprised not to see the tree in its usual corner.
Funny thing about that kadomatsu from Morris...
Every time I pass it in the living room it reminds me of the promise of the new year. It reminds me that I need to get up and start cleaning the house and getting ready for our new year party which will be on the 4th since that's the first date where everyone can get together.
It reminds me that there are adventures waiting, children and grandchildren to visit, friends to hang out with and life to be lived. Oh yes! It's going to be a great 2016!
I went back to read about mom's kadomatsu and think it's a wonderful tradition. Did you burn it last time and will you do it this January? I'll look to see if I can find out any more about this interesting little tradition. I didn't have a tree, either, but then again I never do these days. :-)
ReplyDeleteYes, we've burned it every year. However, this year mom is saying she doesn't care if we do or not. She's always been the one who insisted. Now Art is saying we should. I was thinking of painting it and keeping it. We'll see in the new year.
DeleteGood for you !
ReplyDeleteWe have to take down our tree soon, I always find that time consuming
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tradition, especially since it gets you into the mood for the new year. I like to have all my Christmas decorations down by the new year, and I'm looking forward to a quiet transition into 2016. Hope you have a special week ahead.
ReplyDeleteNice gesture on Morris' part. Have fun preparing for the New Year, Kay.
ReplyDeleteBlessings to you and your family.
Wonderful thoughts to the New Year!
ReplyDeletelooking forward not back is the best idea for a happy new year!
ReplyDeleteHave a great New Year love from Poland Gosia
ReplyDeleteI hope your visit to the doctor went well and he had suggestions for a little more energy. Here I will wait until after G's next test to leap into the new year. In the meantime, I am reading my way through the old. Hugs and good thoughts from here.
ReplyDeleteWishing you a wonderful new year, Kay, with lots of love, joy and beauty -- the very things that you do SO deserve!! Take care and enjoy!!
ReplyDeleteTaking down Christmas decorations will happen after New Year's Day here, and then we will get in and thoroughly clean. Unlike you, we don't make much of a celebration out of New Years. We are mellowing out after the busy Christmas season.
ReplyDeleteIt tugs at my heart to hear that you didn't put up a tree of have a very happy Christmas. You are so right to begin to pull up your spirits and begin to plan for new adventures.
May your optimism here for the new year come true, Kay. Love to you all and many new blessings in 2016.
ReplyDeleteLosses are serious and influence our activities. You have the right idea to get back in the game. Have a great 2016!
ReplyDeletewe don't need a tree to remind us of whats important at Christmas, thats a lovely tradition, a work of art,
ReplyDeleteI remember you telling of this tradition.
I'm glad you are regaining your strength,
I hope this year brings good health and happiness to you and your family,
Best wishes to you all
ReplyDelete