Arianna Merritt, M.Ed.

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Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! I can't believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve day! It is already that time of year again.  As I love to give Christmas cards, I thought I would turn this week's post into a note of gratitude and support to all of my readers.

Seeing the deer in the window caused me to sit and reflect on Christmas.

The holidays are one of my favourite times of the year.  I love getting together with family and friends to celebrate.  Whenever I think of Christmas, the words: home, family, and gathering come to mind.  One of my traditions is gathering with loved ones for a meal and talking about our lives.  I really do look forward to being in that space where we can all eat together and be in each others' presence. Then after the meal, we carry on the fesitivities by playing board games by the fire, going outside to skate, or going sledding. It really is such a wonderful time, and I am really blessed to get to experience this.

I love decorating gingerbread houses with my sisters.

Even though this is a joyful time for many, it is important to be mindful that it may be a lonely and depressing time for others who lack support over the holidays.  As I have grown and everyone's schedules and locations now vary, it is harder to reunite with people who I would love to see.  Many people due to work, money, or time constraints aren't able to make it to all the gatherings they would like to over the break.  I remember last Christmas one of my friends in the Navy was stationed overseas for the holidays and didn't get to come home. There are also many of my relatives and friends who I wont get to see this break, yet I would love to as they mean the world to me.

That is why over Christmas, I reach out and connect with the people I won't be able to see in person.  If you are looking for a last minute gift to send to someone you care about, perhaps consider sending a card with some pictures.  I know that I would love such a gift! It doesn’t cost a lot either; just time and thought about those you care about.  Since you all mean so much to me, I had to write this post for you.  I'm so grateful for your presence in my life. Thank you!

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season! All the best in 2014 :)

Thank you for reading and your presence at this beach retreat. You Rock! I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.

See you at the beach!