Assignment: Today is all about parameters and staying within them. On our personal blogs we control the word count, but someday you may need to craft within the framework of certain parameters and this exercise is designed to help you practice that. So, since Easter is coming up and that makes me think about holidays, I want you to write about your favorite holiday and why it’s your favorite. Be creative. I know you all are super creative! There’s a catch, though. 300 words. Max. I know, I’m such a party pooper. Okay, what are you waiting for? Write! Now! Right now.
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As a child, I always had such daydreams in mind for what I hoped my holidays would be. I fantasized about romantic Christmas Eves by the fireplace, then massive family dinners the following day. Maybe some shopping on Boxing Day, people-watching in a crowded mall. Valentine’s Day also held romantic plans, but more intimate. More me and him, less crowd. I admit that while I still secretly harbour those fantasies, neither of these holidays have turned out this way.
The one I most anticipate each year is Thanksgiving. Being the second Monday in October, it falls at a great time of year. The air is just beginning to chill, yet there’s rarely any snow on the ground just yet. There’s also no pressure for gifts. Rather than self-imposed stress of spending extra dollars for convention’s sake, this is an extra time to be thankful. I enjoy using the days preceding Thanksgiving to reflect on my blessings and to see if I’ve truly been thankful all year. I don’t want to lose the great significance behind this day. It was designated as a holiday to show gratitude. Unfortunately, too many people, old and young alike, deceivingly believe that this day is only about food and football. That the more you gorge yourself, the happier you’ll feel. Our family dinner is not the highlight.
Thanksgiving is also extra special because a few years ago, my middle daughter, Jhyelle, was born 5 days before. The helpless infant had the battle of her life, nearly losing within the first 24 hours. She was so ill, that we were barely allowed to touch her. The first time I was able to hold her was Thanksgiving Day. Our family celebrates this holiday with a deep sense of awe, respect and gratefulness to God’s mercies.
(Psst: this was 298 words. Yay!)