Why decorate?

I’ve asked myself this question several times since Thanksgiving day. I’m surrounded by people who could care less if the house has any decorations. And some who are true Scrooges (not my husband for clarity he’s cool). Okay Scrooges is harsh, but what do you call people who have no interest in the holidays and tell you about it?

So I started decorating, with minimal enthusiasm. I’m an empath, being surrounded by scrooges is hard on me. But I know that “I” need this.

I need the lights, the memories, the warmth a decorated house projects at the holidays. And I stuck a book in my ears, and I put on Christmas music (loudly).

And then I got mad, at the scrooges for bringing me down, at myself for allowing myself to get dragged down. And then I realized why decorate? Because I need to be good to me.

So decorate I did. Not as intense as last year as we aren’t hosting any parties this year. And it needs more lighting, but they’re on a super high shelf and I’ll need help to get them down (maybe tomorrow). I’ve brightened the following photos so you can see them.

In the meantime, I’ve started with memories and collections.

In a few days I’ll decorate the tree. I’m giving the kitten time to adjust and prove she won’t climb it. So far, so good she’s more interested in people.

So in completion, if it brings you joy and peace, do what you need to for your peace of mind. Self care is important in these short days and long nights.