“I'm loving the fact that the holidays are together this year,” she says, observing that Chanukah begins on Christmas Eve. “It's cool that we all can celebrate together!”
As the best gifts are often home (or at least hand) made, so too can the wrapping be. Another tradition that may be useful for all holidays and gift-giving times is to eschew the annual wasting of wrapping paper in favor of a more environmentally-friendly approach. Especially in a time when people want to maintain the green of summer in their lives (and when many bring green trees into their homes), such a “green” practice may be not only appropriate, but preferable.
“I dislike the waste of wrapping paper,” says Needham resident Jane Evans, “but children do like the surprise of unwrapping gifts. So, when my kids were little, I bought some Hanukkah-themed fabric and made drawstring Hanukkah Bags. The kids receive their gifts in the bags, and they have enjoyed reusing the bags night after night and year after year!”
As much fun as it is to receive, the season of giving is really about that. This may be why many families and places of worship are organizing holiday-themed events at which participants give to those who are not as fortunate. Among these is Fifth Night @ Temple Beth Shalom in Needham, a tradition that either inspired or was inspired by the familial traditions of Temple members.
“Our family's [tradition] is to give a gift instead of get a gift on the fifth night of Chanukah,” explains member Beth Belinky, “ since that is the night that there is more light in the world.”
While some people give physical gifts, others take the opportunities to do mitzvot or good deeds.
“Last year, my son wanted to save eight dogs from a high-kill shelter,” Belinky recalls, “so we contacted a rescue group that brings dogs from high-kill shelters in Tennessee up to New England for adoption. We picked them up in RI, brought them to our house and helped get them adopted one by one.”
So while the weather outside may be frightful, this holiday season can be one of the most delightful yet, filled with delicious food, your favorite folks and plenty of creative seasonal fun!
Matt Robinson is a professional journalist, writer, communications director, educator, coach, and parent. His food writing can be read at matts-meals.com and he can be reached at [email protected]