Executive Director's December 2024 Message

Sometimes, we just need a small shift in perspective to totally change how we feel or see something. During the pandemic, I longed for the opportunity to spend time in person with my friends and family for the holidays. Then, when it was finally safe to get together once again, I told myself that I would never again take our holiday gatherings for granted.

My family has mastered a system for the holidays that works for us. And I have assigned myself a role that I consider to be the orchestra conductor, delegating the tasks of who will make which of our treasured holiday family recipes. While our recent holiday gatherings have been going off without any major glitches—with plenty of delicious food and everyone contributing--there has been something missing that I couldn’t quite put my finger on until now.

It turns out that magic was the missing ingredient these past few years. But this year, we have new little ones who have joined our growing family and will be experiencing the holidays with us for the first time. And I find myself being excited to be able  to witness the magic of the holidays through their eyes and I can’t wait. There’s something so pure and delightful in watching their genuine excitement at marveling at the giant turkey, diving their chubby little faces into the fluffy desserts, and participating in time-honored tradition of opening presents.

Gift exchanges between adults and our grown children just aren’t as exciting as watching a little one rip open the beautifully wrapped gifts with great speed and tenacity, make an enormous mess, and witness their sheer jubilation at discovering what’s inside the box.

I hope you’re getting ready for a magical holiday with loved ones. If you are lucky enough to have children around who bring great anticipation, excitement, and joy, I hope you get to witness the magic of the holidays through their eyes this season too.

The holidays tend to bring out the very best in us but they can also become stressful. So please take care of your mental health and well-being during this time. If you find yourself overwhelmed with “unsolicited opinions” or if your “helpful advice” is falling on deaf ears, try taking a long walk and practicing deep breathing. I like to start my day with morning meditation. It grounds me and prepares me for the day’s surprises.

Tending to our mental health before, during, and after the holidays will help us stay in good spirits and be present for family and loved ones when it matters. Have a wonderful holiday and New Year!

Be well,

Abbie Yant, RN, MA