November 18, 2014 (Tuesday)
Halloween has come and gone. Thanksgiving arrives next week. The Christmas season then begins in earnest, and continues until the new year begins. We can feel the holiday spirit in the air. Everything changes at this time of year. Every year.
In our country we have several Federal holidays and other special days each year. Click here for a list*
Most people love the holidays and the other special days of the year. They offer a break in routine. Something different. Many of these occasions are exciting and joyful, and bring lots of fun.
Thanksgiving to the New Year is a season that is increasingly celebrated in many different ways. Growing up in the Great Depression years, and then the World War 2 years, travel was limited and money was in short supply, so this season was generally a time for family reunions with cousins aunts uncles and grand parents, along with exchanging gifts within the immediate family. In recent decades, however, many new customs have made their way in personal and family agendas.
Cruises have become fully booked during the holidays. Trips to ski lodges in the
mountains are very popular. A dream tour across the country to see all the popular sights is the choice of some. A visit to Alaska, Canada, Mexico or a Caribbean island or even to a European country is not beyond the means of many. If money is not an issue, then the choices are multiplied. More and more people are choosing to do these things during the Christmas season.
The day before Thanksgiving is the heaviest travel day of the year. I think most are traveling to see family members and share a special meal with loved ones. Many are ignoring opportunities for travel, etc. to be with family. Santa Claus is still making his way around the world on Christmas Eve to brighten children’s faces on the exciting morning that follows. Most family members make some kind of contact with each other at this time of year.
‘Tis the season. In many ways, the best time of the year for most. I sincerely hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. And, oh yes, a happy new year.
Click here for a much longer list of holidays and special days.