Not the best timing for bad weather. Tons of people need to travel for Thanksgiving tomorrow and it’s a messy wintery mix outside.

And then, it happened. The mix turned into a fluffy, white, swirling snowfall. I stopped everything I was working on and performed one of my most coveted rituals. Every year during the first snowfall I stop whatever it is that I'm doing and sit by the window while listening to Tchaikovsky’s Pas de Deux from the Nutcracker. The beauty of the snow and the music are perfect together – it’s as if the snow is dancing.

Even though this ritual lasts just a few minutes, I look forward to it every year. Time stops and it’s me and the snow. In my heart this ritual signifies the beginning of the holiday season and allows me to experience it in my own special way. I love the music, the decorations, the food - but watching the snow is my own peaceful holiday kick off.

This is why ritual is so important and personal. It gives us ways to consciously incorporate beauty and self-reflection into our lives.

Whatever you holiday rituals are, cherish them. Have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving and a Happy Holiday season.

Yours,

Francoise