AAAAAhhhhhh

There’s something special about the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Sure, it triggers all of those “I gotta get this done before the new year” thoughts, but it also has a bit of a relaxing exhale to it – kind of a quiet rhythm all its own. Around here, winter begins to settle in, the fireplace gets used a lot more, and we just sort of look forward to chill. I thought about it to see what I’d plan, and suggest, rather than rushing into resolutions (I have just a few this year!) I’d take some time to reflect and enjoy. Searching the web to see if others do the same, I stumbled on some cool traditions from other countries and made up a list of my own. I hope you, too, can think of this week as your reset window – a quiet space to wrap up loose ends, enjoy small pleasures, connect with those we missed the past few weeks, and get our mind and heart ready for a fresh start. Enjoy the tips!

Take a cue from that tradition and declutter something small: Empty your email inbox, clean out one drawer or shelf, recycle old papers, or donate clothes you don’t wear. You’ll start the year lighter and a little more organized.

There’s something satisfying about completing a few “almost dones” before the ball drops. That half-read book on your nightstand? Finish it. The half-painted hallway? Give it one more coat. And when you put away the decorations, do a good cleaning and get rid of stuff you’ve not used in years.

One tip I liked was: Reflect, Don’t Regret. If you are like me, you have a list of “shoulda-coulda’s.” Think about the moments that made you smile, the new people you met, the ones who helped you this past year, and those friends who may have taught you something new or given you a perspective on something you just weren’t seeing. If so inclined, reach out and just say “thanks.” There is a mantra that I try to live by while sharing it with others —   “I CAN’T CHANGE YESTERDAY!”

If you’re not in the mood for crowded countdowns, host something simpler and warmer – a small dinner, a game night, or a cozy “friends and leftovers” evening. The in-between week is perfect for slower, more meaningful gatherings.

Just chill – ingredients: comfy warm slippers, “knock around” clothes, favorite chair, blanket and pillow, beverage of choice, and fireplace aglow (if you have one.) Sip something warm, put on some music, find a good read, and just CHILL! (no phone, no tv!!) Actually, put your phone in a drawer, and see how long you can go without it!

Other countries have their own charming year-end rituals worth borrowing:

In Japan, families mark the end of the year with Ōsōji, the “big cleaning,” where every corner of the home (and even the mind) gets a tidy-up. It’s part spiritual, part practical, and it works.

In Spain, they have a tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight — one for luck in each month ahead.

In Denmark, they smash old plates on friends’ doorsteps to bring good fortune (maybe skip this one indoors).

In Scotland, they have the “first-footer” tradition — the first visitor after midnight should bring bread, coal, and whisky for warmth and abundance.

In Greece, families bake a sweet Vasilopita cake with a coin inside; whoever finds it gets good luck for the year.

In Brazil, they wear white to symbolize peace and toss flowers into the ocean as an offering for blessings.

Between now and January 1st, don’t pressure yourself to have everything figured out. The “fresh start effect” is real — psychologists say that natural milestones like New Year’s help reset our motivation. So, instead of one big resolution, pick a “word of the year, something that captures what you want more of. Balance, Courage, Prayer, Joy, Growth, Gratitude, Friendships, Family. Tuck it into your sock drawer as a reminder throughout the year. Let that word guide small daily choices rather than rigid rules.

And, as a blessing:

May you find peace in the pause and purpose in the days ahead,
May your home be filled with love and laughter,

May your heart be filled with gratitude for all that’s yet to come,
May you look forward with kindness, living each day with hope, and

May you walk into the New Year with steady joy and quiet courage for good things ahead.

Happy New Year,  from all your friends at KHT

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