The Sunshine Report Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season! Karen and Jay share the spirit of Christmas and the importance of family during this special season of the year! Christmas is a celebration of joy, tradition, miracles, giving, and families coming together! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! There is an excitement that builds as this magical day approaches. I remember those days when I was six or seven years old – and eagerly waiting for Santa, as well as later in life when I would read to our own kids on Christmas Eve – ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ (which I still do, by the way), and then send them all off to bed – knowing they might not sleep even a wink – as they listened for reindeer hooves on the roof. Christmas is widely hailed as the most wonderful time of the year, and for good reason. At the heart of this festive season lies the simple yet profound joy of families coming together. The significance of being surrounded by loved ones during Christmas cannot be overstated. It is a time when distances and differences seem to vanish, and the warmth of familial bonds takes center stage. Whether it's sharing a hearty meal, exchanging gifts, or simply enjoying each other's company by a crackling fire, the magic of Christmas lies in the unity and togetherness of families. And Christmas is also about traditions. The rituals, passed down through generations, create a sense of continuity and connection to our past. From the hanging of stockings by the fireplace to the joyful decorating of the Christmas tree, these customs provide a comforting familiarity that transcends time. Christmas traditions not only bind families together but also foster a true sense of community. It’s very much a time for magical miracles, both big and small. From the first snowfall that transforms the world into a winter wonderland to the joyous reunions of long-lost friends and family members, the holiday season is a time when the extraordinary becomes ordinary. It's as if the air is infused with a sense of wonder and anticipation, making Christmas a time when miracles are not just hoped for but expected. These magical moments remind us of the beauty and possibility that life holds, inspiring a renewed sense of hope and gratitude. And, of course, one of the most powerful and enduring aspects of Christmas is the spirit of giving. The act of giving during the holiday season extends beyond material presents; it encompasses the generosity of spirit and the warmth of goodwill. Whether it's volunteering at a local shelter, donating to those in need, or simply offering a kind word or gesture to a stranger, the Christmas season inspires people to open their hearts and spread joy. The spirit of giving during Christmas serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the profound impact that kindness and compassion can have on individuals and communities alike. So, as we approach this special day, please embrace the spirit. Fill your heart with joy. Reach out to your family, your neighbors, your friends, and members of your community – to wish them well, rejoice in the spirit of Christmas – and give heartfelt thanks for this joyous season. Read The Report Christmas - The Season of Giving Read More Christmas is a Time of Traditions Read More Positive Profile of the Week: Santa Claus – the One and Only! This week we are delighted to highlight that jolly and iconic figure - Santa Claus! We love Santa – as he is synonymous with holiday cheer and traces his legendary origins to the snowy landscapes of the North Pole. Born out of folklore and fables, Santa transcends time and culture. Legend has it that Santa Claus, also known as St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle, or Father Christmas, began his life as a kind and generous bishop in ancient Turkey. Over the centuries, his story evolved, merging with various traditions to become the beloved figure we know today. In the 19th century, the transformative poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement Clarke Moore helped solidify Santa's modern image. With his reindeer-drawn sleigh and magical abilities, Santa became synonymous with delivering joy and gifts to children around the world. Though Santa's workshop is firmly rooted in the North Pole, there's a curious connection to our wonderful state of New Hampshire. While not his birthplace, the enchanting landscapes of New Hampshire have been a frequent source of inspiration for holiday tales and festive imagery. The picturesque scenes of snow-covered forests and cozy villages evoke the magic of the season and add a touch of New England charm to Santa's global narrative. Santa Claus embodies the spirit of generosity, love, and goodwill, transcending borders and bringing people together during the festive season. His timeless appeal continues to captivate hearts, making him a cherished symbol of Christmas magic for generations worldwide. We thank you, Santa, for the unifying, positive spirit you bring into our lives each year as we celebrate Christmas, the most special of holidays! Quote of the Week "Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful." - Norman Vincent Peale     Jay Lucas | www.JayLucas.us  Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Jay Lucas | 7 Portwalk Pl, Portsmouth, NH 03801 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]