What a wonderful time of year! The winter season puts me in a festive mood when I see an array of seasonal decorations in stores and on homes in the neighbourhood. I enjoy the inviting fragrances of pine and gingerbread wafting through the shopping mall.

My initial thought as the first snowfall made its way down from the sky, was that it is time to bundle up since it’s going to be cold and icy. Now that the winter season has come upon us again I am looking forward to a delicious home cooked dinner with family at the holidays. It’s been a fast-paced year and it’s a time to embrace special moments and traditions with loved ones as we make a transition into the new year.

Lately, my daughter has been asking when it would be a good time to put up the tree. I am flexible and preparing to decorate my home with a new style. I recall as a child, we didn’t always have a lot of Christmas moments as some may enjoy, but one thing we always had was a nice home cooked meal with family. After all, it’s not all about material things – it’s about love from one’s heart and the giving of one’s time. Time is so limited in our lives yet we often just allow it to pass us by.

As part of an Aboriginal family in McCauley, I try to enjoy the simplicity of just enjoying doing things together. Putting up the tree and sorting out the lights can be quite fulfilling. I also would like to try to make a string of popcorn for the tree this year. Making homemade trinkets is a great way to save money, and using recycled materials can be fun and easy. My daughter picked some acorns recently and I’m sure she will make them useful in some way.

I enjoy this season because we get to enjoy the nice white world we live in now. Just remember there are many people who may not be able to cope with some areas of their lives right now, but as a friend we can make it a lot easier for them to confront the blues.

I hope and pray you all have a joyous time this Christmas season and in the new year to come.