Down by the Cypress Trees

Rolling in a Winter Wonderland

What’s your favorite month of the year? Why?

December. Sagittarius season (my birthday month). Crisp winter air. Christmas decorations. And most importantly, family and friendship.

The month of December has, throughout my life, always been my favorite. It is always such a joyous time for me and for everyone around me. I have always been very family oriented — we grew up that way. Some of my favorite memories as a kid were traveling to Michigan to go see Grandma and Grandpa and the rest of my mom’s side of the family. We always held Christmas Eve at my grandparents house and the entire family would come over for grandma’s homemade Christmas dinner, featuring the traditional ham and fixings alongside her famous Polish sausage.

December has also always been a time where I get celebrated and I allow myself to join in on the celebrations. Turning another year older when you have a disability, especially when you reach adulthood, is a momentous occasion and I deserve to celebrate it. I have always celebrated my birthday with my family, which is always a wonderful time. We usually go out to dinner and then celebrate afterward at home with cake and ice cream.

In recent years, though, in addition to celebrating with family, I have also made it a point to celebrate with my closest friends. Last year, in the midst of my struggles, my sweet coworkers took me out for Mexican food and a little celebration. This year, I have invited a few friends with the Nature Coast Young Democrats to come hang out at my house for an evening, plus there may be a very special guest. Stay tuned on that. I am very excited!

This year, I will also get to see my brother and two of my nephews. They will be coming in all the way from San Diego where they live–it has been about five years since I’ve seen them last, and let me tell you, they grow up fast.

So as we celebrate the official beginning of the holiday season with the passing of Thanksgiving, I am going to celebrate December and bask in all the love, family time, and friendship for as long as I can.

One response to “Rolling in a Winter Wonderland”

  1. Arwen-Wynter Oakley Avatar
    Arwen-Wynter Oakley

    I absolutely loved reading your blog post about December, especially the joy and warmth you associate with the month. It sounds like a magical time filled with family, traditions, and cherished memories. Your family-oriented upbringing and the tradition of celebrating Christmas Eve at your grandparents’ house add a beautiful layer of nostalgia.

    It’s heartwarming to hear that you make it a point to celebrate with both family and friends. The Mexican food celebration with your coworkers and the upcoming gathering with the Nature Coast Young Democrats, including the hint of a special guest ;), sound like fantastic ways to mark the occasion. I’m definitely intrigued to know more about that special guest—very intrigued LOL.
    The anticipation of reuniting with your brother and nephews from San Diego after five years adds an extra special touch to this December. It’s true; time does fly, and seeing loved ones after such a gap must be a truly heartwarming experience.

    Your positive outlook on celebrating the holiday season and embracing the love, family time, and friendship that comes with it is truly inspiring. It’s wonderful how you find joy in growth, both in the context of your birthday and the changing dynamics of family over the years.

    Wishing you a December filled with even more joy, love, and meaningful moments. Looking forward to hearing more about your celebrations and that mysterious special guest! ❤ Love you!

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