Ringing in the Holiday Season!

Haven't blogged in a while...who knew juggling 3 different blogs would be so difficult? With my efforts on other class blogs and even more importantly our campaign my focus has been out of balance.

Anyways...as December 8th, the first night of Hanukkah, approaches I am becoming nostalgic with memories from my childhood past.  8 nights of lighting candles, potato latkes, chocolate gelt, prayers and other songs, and even presents.  

My family's holiday traditions have changed over time from when I was a little girl and would get 8 presents for each night, to now when we just take a family vacation.  Regardless of the traditions, I feel so fortunate for the opportunities the holiday season affords me on a personal and familial level and in a general sense.

Don't know about Hanukkah, spinning Dreidels and all? Here's Wikipedia's Explanation of our Jewish Miracle of a holiday.

The History channel explains this holiday as, "The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend Jews had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah, which means "dedication" in Hebrew, begins on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. Often called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gifts"

As a conservative practicing Jew myself, who keeps kosher and all, I love the historical aspects of the holiday; however, it is truly a time for me to reconnect with family and the symbolism of the holiday.  For me the history translates into evoking many emotions for me including: belief in miracles, that things are meant to be, never giving up hope, and holding onto the ones you love.

Ultimately, this year, I want to remember to never take my family for granted.  I want to focus on myself and how I have grown since each past Hanukkah celebrations.  As I am maturing I truly am becoming more and more sentimental and feel so blessed to be able to gather with the friends and family I love and celebrate in ways that are indigenous to my family!

Bottom line? Whether you are celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza, these holidays have a greater meaning than presents and Hallmark cards - it's about faith, love, appreciation, and joy.  Remember those who celebrated with you in the past and cherish those who bask in your happiness with you in the present.

Enjoy your winter breaks whether you're in the sun or the snow! We all need some rest and relaxation, so use this time to give yourself a little TLC!

Happy Holidays...start thinking of your new years resolution too!

xoxo