The Connector: Holiday Edition 132

Dec 17th, 2025 | The Connector

Every year, as I stand before my Christmas tree, I'm reminded that this season isn't just about the presents wrapped beneath it. It's about the amazing memories that come rushing back when I open that large Rubbermaid green bin containing years of wonderful stories.

This year, as I carefully unpacked each ornament (yes, I wrap each one every year!), I found myself pausing longer than usual. There, nestled in tissue paper, was the hardened dough candy cane my son crafted in kindergarten, more brown than red, with tiny fingerprints preserved in the dough. I remember the pride on his face when he presented it to me, insisting it go right at the front of the tree where everyone could see it. That was years ago, but holding it now, I can still feel the weight of his small hand in mine.

Next came the delicate glass angel I bought for my mother the Christmas before she passed. I searched three different stores to find one that reminded me of her,  raceful, luminous, with quiet strength. Every year when I hang it on the highest branch, I feel her presence, as if she's watching over our celebration, pleased that we're still gathering, still laughing, still loving.

Then there's the hand-made green bell from my dear friend Helen, who trusted me with her homemade ornament because she knew how much the holidays meant to me and that I would take great care of her favorite. And that one, my dear friend gave to me at my very first Christmas party in my new house, a gift from someone who told me, "Every home needs its first special Christmas memory." She was right. That evening became the foundation of a tradition that continues to this day.

Each ornament tells its own story, a trip we took, a milestone we celebrated, a person who touched our lives. Together, they transform a simple evergreen into a timeline of love, a three-dimensional scrapbook of moments that shaped who we've become.  What's your favorite ornament and why?

As we close out 2025, I'm reflecting on the memories of this year. There were challenges, there always are. But there were also triumphs, surprises, and countless small joys we might have missed if we hadn't been paying attention. An unexpected call from an old friend. A perfect sunset. A shared meal that tasted better because of the company. A problem solved, a goal reached, a kindness received.

In a world that often feels weighed down by negativity, the Christmas season offers us a gentle reminder: we have a choice in what we focus on. We can dwell on what went wrong, or we can celebrate what went right.  Let's choose the latter!

The truth is, every day truly is a present, a gift waiting to be unwrapped, a chance to create new memories, to show up for the people we love, to find joy in the ordinary. Standing here, looking at this tree adorned with ornaments representing decades of love and laughter, I'm reminded that the accumulation of small, beautiful moments is what creates a life worth living.

So, as you gather with your loved ones this season, whether around a grand table, in a quiet living room, or just in front of your tree, I encourage you to pause and really see the moment. For at least one night during this holiday season, turn off all the lights except for your Christmas tree and just sit there reminiscing of all the ornaments and their stories and take it all in!

Here's to the memories we've made, the ones we're creating right now, and all the beautiful moments still waiting for us in the year ahead. May your tree shine brightly, may your heart be full, and may you carry the spirit of this season with you long after the decorations are packed away.

Wishing all of you a truly magical holiday season. Here's to a very happy and healthy 2026! Thank you for being a part of TOC. We are super excited for 2026!