Misplaced?

I feel misplaced.  I've felt this way in several areas of my life throughout my life.  For purposes of this entry I am going to write about holiday misplacement.

I am not a Scrooge.  I just don't relate to the ADULT excitement of holiday parties, the shopping, ubiquitous and overplayed ugly sweater parties, the trimmings, nor the trappings. I feel misplaced during most holidays.   I am never in a hurry to get a Christmas tree up and quite frankly could do without one.  I don't get excited decorating a tree and have no interest in seasonal and holiday decorations.  I am very confident I would feel this way even if I had financial freedom.  For almost a decade now I shop last minute and do not enjoy the hustle and bustle. Christmas cards are fun because I love photography, but become un-fun because I hate the cost and finding the time.  The thought of adding un-needed tasks to my already full plate paralyzes me.  I don't have energy for putting up and taking down decorations.   When I am not at work or running errands or chores I simply want to be a mom and homebody.  Boring.  Yawn. Take me or leave me. Actually, leave me! I can't thrive in an over- indulgent, over-busy, and over- stimulating society.

I unashamedly and happily use seasonal potholders, mugs, and kitchen towels 12 months of the year.

There has to be other folks out there like me, right?   For anyone thinking I'm a party pooper or lost the magic I need to say that MY magic is found in simplicity, peace, calm, laughter, love, kindness,  generosity, rest, and a quiet presence....all year long.

More than anything I would love to give anonymously and generously throughout the year and
more so this time of year to provide and restore help and hope to strangers and loved ones.  Now that would energize me more than hanging a wreath, stringing lights, or baking a sugar cookie.  That's a dream I have.

Mainstream Christmas is for kids and the economy...and that I understand.  I have tons of fond memories being Santa Claus as a single mom spoiling my young daughter with gifts.   Presently, I love to watch all of our  girls' expressions while they tear into their gifts and to serve them too sweet homemade crock pot hot cocoa that sends them all to the bathroom.  I'm sure they will develop their own likes and needs for the holidays as they get older and I will respect their desires....just as long as they don't expect me to cook a creepy turkey, ham, or display inflatable lawn ornaments.

Teacher Tip:  If you put up a holiday tree in your classroom and don't have time to prep decorations for it, your students will be excited no matter what.  Trust me.