Calendar creation, a time for reflection
I've spent some time this week putting together the family calendar - something I've done now since about 2004. Originally I created it in a calendar program and then printed it at a Kinkos on cardstock, but I now use Shutterfly. I've kept the same content formula - "scanned photos of long-gone relatives and baby pictures of my siblings and I are mixed with digital photos from family events from the past year. "
Creating a calendar is a powerful form of reflection for me. The end of the year, familiar gatherings, new children and friends, and the loss of people who may have been a log part of my life, all put me in a bittersweet mood. We cannot, of course, stop the world from turning and would not want it to stop revolving even if we could. As much as I loved my children and grandchildren as babies, I love them even more now as adults and fast growing children and adolescents. Some old and treasured traditions continued; some became impractical; and new ones were forged.
I expect Christmas 2016 will not be dissimilar because not only do those around us change, but we ourselves do as well: beoming wiser or more foolish, healthier or less abled, more giving or more selfish, and braver or more fearful. Opportunites will arise, as will disappointments. Most years I am lucky enough to find a book or take a trip that impacts my life and thinking in a very substantial, personal, permanent way. And I am happy for that.
Get to work on your calendar and your reflections. I need to start my other Christmas shopping!
Reader Comments (2)
Hi Doug,
I think we are very similar, as I just received my annual Shutterfly calendars in the mail today! I've been making them for the past 8 years or so, although I did take the last two years off since we were overseas. I love your idea about incorporating old pictures, however, and will think about doing that next year.
Loved your "old school style", too!
Alicia
Hi Alicia,
Well, if we are similar, you have my sympathies!
My guess is that these calendars might become family keepsakes. I know at least they are for me. And it is fun to pass down some old pictures - some of these folks I barely remember or never knew.
Happy holidays!
Doug​