As we step out into the season of evergreen, we hurry from place to place in our dash to catch it all. Then, with a quiet honest warmth, it’s the small things that catch us, give us pause to reflect and realize why we do all of this: the planning, decorating, buying, baking. It’s all about GATHERING. Creating this year’s Spiritile has inspired me to do these things: Draw in a full breath of brisk air, savor the aura fresh-split pine and hot spiced cider. Step up to the door of festivity, knock, let it greet you with a familiar smile and a glass of Grandma’s stronger-than-usual eggnog. Gather loved ones around until the house bursts with open hearts, full bellies, and late-night laughter. Here is my wish for you: Create a home this holiday, not of the things you have, but by drawing close the people you love, pouring the wine, staying up late, and eating more than your share of pie. Savor the moment. ’Tis the Season for Gathering, Houston Llew
