From Grinch to Glee: Embracing the Holiday Season - My Transformative Journey
Discover my journey from holiday Grinch to festive enthusiast as I share how I learned to embrace the holiday season in the United States. Explore the magic of creating your own traditions and spreading joy during this special time of year.
Photo by Nicee Martin
As I sit down to reminisce about my evolving relationship with the holiday season, I can't help but smile at how life's twists and turns have transformed me from a self-proclaimed Grinch into an ardent holiday enthusiast. You see, my journey with the holidays in the United States began on a somewhat somber note, far removed from the lively and festive celebrations of my early years in Nigeria.
My earliest memories of Christmas and New Year were nothing short of pure joy and togetherness. Our home was always bustling with family, cousins, and friends, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and the comforting chaos of loved ones. My mother, may her beautiful soul rest in peace, was the ultimate hostess. She effortlessly juggled cooking, baking, sewing, and ensuring everyone who crossed our threshold felt welcomed and well-fed.
But life took a turn after high school when I made the move to Chicago, hoping to experience the enchanting holiday magic I had seen in movies like "Home Alone." However, the reality was far from what I had imagined. The holidays in America felt starkly different from the warm and vibrant celebrations of my childhood in Nigeria. Instead of joyous gatherings, I found a sense of sadness, loneliness, and isolation that I couldn't ignore. So, like any self-respecting Grinch, I embraced my inner cynic with gusto. I convinced myself that I loathed the holiday season, rolling my eyes at Christmas songs and grumbling whenever I heard them playing in stores. Looking back, it's amusing how committed I was to my Grinchy phase, which seemed to stretch on for over a decade.
I can't pinpoint the exact moment when my perspective shifted, but one day, I decided it was time to stop hindering my own joy. I realized that I had the power to shape my holiday experience and create new traditions that resonated with me. Slowly but surely, I began to embrace the holidays, rekindling the magic that had eluded me for so long.
Photo by Emilia Jane Photography
Today, I eagerly anticipate the holiday season, and it feels absolutely magical. It's a time for me to celebrate not only the season itself but also my own journey, my year, and the precious connections I've made along the way. I've learned to appreciate the act of gift-giving as a way to express love and gratitude, and I'm committed to sharing this mission with others. So, you'll likely notice a flurry of holiday-themed content from me because I wholeheartedly believe that each of us can craft our own joyful traditions and find beauty in even the smallest gatherings. My mission now is to spread joy and inspire others to embrace the holidays in their own unique way. After all, it's not just about the festivities; it's about the warmth and love we bring to them.
Photos by Emilia Jane Photography
My journey from holiday Grinch to gleeful enthusiast has been a transformative one. It reminds me that life is ever-evolving, and our perceptions can change as we grow and adapt. I've learned that embracing the holidays isn't about conforming to a specific mold; it's about making the season your own. So, as we dive headfirst into this year's holiday festivities, I encourage you to do the same. Find your unique way to celebrate, create your traditions, and cherish the moments that matter most to you. Whether it's a cozy gathering with close friends, heartfelt gift-giving, or simply savoring the quiet beauty of the season, let it be an expression of your joy.
Photography by Hannah Schweiss Photography
As for me, you can expect to see an abundance of holiday-themed content, as I'm on a mission to inspire and uplift. Join me in making this season one filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. After all, the holidays are a time to celebrate life and the people who make it extraordinary. .
Now, one of my favorite holiday traditions is to cozy up with a warm blanket, a cup of hot cocoa - OK fine, a nice glass of Champagne or wine (because let's be honest, I've upgraded), and watch 'The Holiday.' I mean, who doesn't love that movie? It's become a heartwarming reminder of the magic that the holiday season holds. I often joke that we can be fast friends if you share my love for 'The Holiday'!
As I embrace this journey from being a holiday Grinch to a festive enthusiast, I want to encourage you to find your own joy during this special time of year. Whether it's embracing your favorite holiday movies, creating new traditions, or simply savoring the moments with loved ones, the holidays are what you make of them. I'd love to hear your holiday traditions and how you're spreading joy this season! Leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram.
Wishing you a joyful and magical holiday season! And remember, if you ever need a movie buddy for 'The Holiday,' you know who to call. 😉
With heartfelt wishes for a joyful holiday season,
xx Akeshi
Join me in celebrating the holidays with style and elegance. Explore more festive tips, inspiration, and stories on my blog, The Art of Celebrating. Let's make this season truly special!
