There are traditional times to give gifts, at holidays or on birthdays, but who doesn't love a surprise gift? What better time is there to treat your loved one to special attention than in the cold months of winter, after the holiday spirit is packed away?
Giving things to people in health facilities or small apartments does require extra thought and care. Keep these things in mind when choosing a gift for your special person.
Most people, if asked, will say, "I don't need a thing," but who doesn't like getting a new puzzle book or deck of cards, seasonal-flavored lip balm, or fresh pens to write a quick thank you note? A warm afghan or stocking cap can provide comfort and color. If chosen with love and some forethought, a gift delivered personally by you will be the best gift of all. Prairie Homestead yvonne@prairiehomestead.org prairiehomestead.org 1605 W. May Street Wichita KS 67213 (316) 263-8264
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Many people, in many languages, exchange this greeting. We wish each other good fortune and good health. In some countries or religions, the "new year" doesn't start on January first, but whenever it starts, a fresh year can be a new beginning.
It's a tradition for many in the United States to watch a certain holiday movie, a parade or a televised special with fireworks to start out the New Year. The giant shining ball has dropped at midnight in New York City's Times Square since 1907. People all over the world can witness the drop on their televisions or smart phones. A kiss at midnight, a special toast, and singing "Auld Lang Syne" are other traditions frequently observed in our country. But how do other countries and cultures celebrate this important time? In some cultures, round or circle-shaped foods, like oranges and small cakes, are eaten to symbolize long life and good health in the new year. Spanish people try to eat twelve grapes as the clock strikes midnight. Other "lucky food" includes rice for prosperity in India and Pakistan, apples dipped in honey for the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, and black-eyed peas in the American south. Latin Americans who want to travel in the next year, will walk around the block on New Year's Eve with a suitcase. Others clean the house on New Year's Eve. The Greeks have special carols, and Danish people jump over the threshold into the new year. The Chinese have fireworks, lanterns and dragon parades. In Brazil, wearing white for the new year is thought to bring good fortune. The Dutch plunge into the freezing North Sea. No matter what the tradition, every one seems to look ahead with optimism, hoping that the troubles of the old year will be washed or rung or swept away, while the future will bring something better. Here's to a good new year! Prairie Homestead yvonne@prairiehomestead.org prairiehomestead.org 1605 W. May Street Wichita KS 67213 (316) 263-8264 What to Do about the Holiday Blues?
Cheerful holiday commercials and the movies shown from November through January depict unbroken families with expensive, in beautifully-decorated homes. No rent due, no health problems, no cranky uncles or unappreciative grandchildren. Reality can be very different, and the "holiday blues" may make some feel sad, anxious and over-stressed. Some of the causes of holiday blues are:
Some of the symptoms to watch for:
What can be done about holiday blues?
The "holiday blues" can lead to greater depression, so there is no shame in talking to a professional or medical caregiver, even if symptoms seem mild now. Isolation contributes to seasonal depression, so seek out a friend, a group, or a free community activity that will keep you in touch with others during the holiday season. Prairie Homestead yvonne@prairiehomestead.org prairiehomestead.org 1605 W. May Street Wichita KS 67213 (316) 263-8264 Little Holiday Celebrations
Whether you sit down at an abundant table together with all of your family or not this season, the winter months are a wonderful time to be thankful and to share things with others. No matter what your circumstances, there are simple activities that you can do to make the holiday season special.
Prairie Homestead yvonne@prairiehomestead.org prairiehomestead.org 1605 W. May Street Wichita KS 67213 (316) 263-8264 |
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