Trimming the Christmas Tree, Singing Carols, and the Annual Jólabókaflóð
For me, Christmas encapsulates all the things that are right in the world. The weather is chilly, and I can wear all my nice sweaters, of which I have many. I get to use the gas fireplace in my living room for two or even three days. Cold nights call for soup made of whatever is leftover in the refrigerator, creating culinary masterpieces never-to-be-repeated. People are generally happy and a bit more forgiving; they let others merge into traffic, give their spare change a little more freely, and smile easily.
Related: 12 Joyful Activities to Rediscover Your Christmas Spirit
There are also many lovely traditions, like tree trimming, singing carols, Christmas cookies, giving and receiving hand-picked gifts, and making charitable donations. I recently read again about a tradition I had forgotten – I have friends who live in Iceland, and they reminded me of the annual Jólabókaflóð (yoh-la-bok-ah-flood), literally a “flood of books.” In this case, the giving and receiving of new books on Christmas Eve, then snuggling up companionably with loved ones, reading those books and sipping hot chocolate.
Related: 50 Christmas Bucket List Items to Make the Most of the Holiday Season
So, here’s my wish for all of you readers out there this Christmastide: may your beaches be clean, your trees be evergreen, and your days be filled with a flood… of books and good cheer.
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
