You know Thanksgiving and the holidays are officially here when the temperature starts dropping, when you feel you need to take a vacation, and when you start craving that special homemade mac and cheese that makes your mouth water. Once Halloween is over, it seems like the end of the year comes at you in the blink of an eye. Living in a somewhat post- pandemic society, the years feel like they want to end sooner than you want them to, but there are a few ways to help you and your loved ones make the holiday season last even longer.
Make time to learn the family recipes
They say the best way to understand culture and family is through its food. Through spices, special ingredients, and spontaneous concoctions, it tells a story about where you come from and who you come from. Take some time to sit with your Grandmother, Grandfather, Mom, Dad, Auntie, Uncle or anyone who makes a signature dish in the family and understand why they make it the way they do. Ask who thought of them, what makes it so special, and what the significance is. We often forget that family recipes usually have a story or two behind them. Our elders are our walking cookbooks that you can learn from every day. Talking to them while preparing a good home cooked meal will make the food taste even better because you are preparing it with legacy and love. Like the old saying goes, sometimes the best way to the heart is through the stomach.
Tell that relative that you haven’t spoken to that you love them
Remember the three words that seemed to be easy to say when you were child, but feel uncomfortable to say now? Well, it’s time to get over that! We often take the words “I love you” for granted because we are holding on to fear, anger, and grudges. It’s very normal for every family to have their fights and differences but it shouldn’t come between the love that you share for one another. We have all been hurt or have hurt a family member, but one thing that holidays will do is force you to see the relatives(s) that you haven’t spoken to all year long. Make the choice to talk about your emotions with your loved one and let it go in the name of love. It’s hard to let go of resentment, but it’s easier to simply say “I love you”. Sometimes those are the words and apology that someone in your family needs to hear this holiday season. Don’t let another year go by without speaking to your family.
Take pictures
A picture is worth a thousand words. Holidays are cherished because of the people you are surrounded by and the vibe that is created when being together. Living in this post Covid-19 era and chaotic world, you never know who will be around or who won’t be around next year. In those moments of laughter and joy, snap a quick photo to remember those smiling faces. Don’t over think it either, usually the candid photos are the best. Maybe this year you can actually teach your grandparents or aunties how to take a selfie from the correct angel. Click that capture button as many times as you need to because you never know how many more times you will have. Pictures create memories and memories last forever.
Once the Thanksgiving season is over, continue to be the gift that keeps on giving this holiday season. You know the whole family can always use some Ustawi Skincare to glow into the New Year. *wink wink*