Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

I expect the winter holidays will be a little challenging. Not as raw as last year, perhaps more insistent on looking forward.

So I made a list of traditions, new and old, and already invited friends to join me.

1. I Made it for the Holidays Market
2. Xmas tree up in living room with lights
3. Decorate Fort Faulsey for holidays
4. ‘Christmas at Pemberley’ at City Theatre
5. ‘Die Hard N’at’ at Bricolage
6. Holiday Pops at Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
7. Winter Solstice Celebration at Penn Forest
8. Handmade Arcade
9. Drive around to see the holiday lights in various neighborhoods
10. Distribute holiday packages to caretakers registered with Dr. John P. Ruffing VMD Pet Food Pantry

I have no one with whom I’ll exchange gifts. Of course I’ll gift to my nephews, but they aren’t mature enough to realize the joy of giving …lol. My parents are gone, my brother disconnected. My in-laws left my life.

Most of my friends do not exchange gifts. How could I come up with a gift to thank the people who stand with me during this time?

I haven’t figured that all out. And I’m okay with that.

One holiday experience no one can snatch away is turning on the lights encircling the Christmas Tree in a quiet dark room. Just watching them twinkle and blink, holiday tunes playing softly. It’s not about religion or gifts or food. Rather, it is about simply enjoying the moment.

Then turning off the lights before going to bed with a little more peace and joy in my heart.