You may want to familiarize yourself with the philosophy of Stoicism. It sounds very similar to what you describe. I’d recommend starting with a “sampler” like “The Daily Stoic,” by Ryan Holiday. Epictetus and Marcus Auralius are two of the biggest names in terms of “fathers” of this philosophy.

Don’t go by whatever impression Hollywood or society may have left you with about the word “stoic.” It doesn’t mean “without emotion.”

I decorate for the seasons.

I kick off winter with a fondue party and make my place more “hygge” for the season. Candles, cozy blankets, baking bread, making tea and soup. Decor involves pinecones and coniferous branches, my rustic dark wood table is left uncovered. I have smart bulbs, so usually warm lighting. That sort of thing.

As a contrast, in summer I go more Mediterranean accents. Bowls of fruit, a wreath of wildflowers, I make limoncello and instead of candles, I’ll use an Aera scent machine for smells like “fresh laundry.” I frequently have bouquets of lavender around, and a French country tablecloth on the rustic table.

That’s the general idea anyway. Fall might have gourds, leaves, and cider in the mix.

So, while not really for a particular “holiday,” I do enjoy honoring the seasons by trying to be in sync with them. I live alone, but entertain quite a bit.

Did you mean “Here’s”? I’m trying to figure out if that is a typo that kinda flipped the meaning of that sentence.

Then again, it’s early and I’m easily confused before coffee.

Poop

So well in fact, someone should write a song about it!!

Because historically the Republicans have had better turnout in swing states. Anger and hyperbole are great motivators, regardless of topic. Democrat-leaning folks tend not to be as angry, scared, and swayed by cult-like leaders, so tend to be more complacent. It’s a matter of trying to even the behavioral playing field. Not to mention the gerrymandering fuckery that has made it even harder for democrats to be fairly represented in crucial geographic areas. Finally, consider where the underhanded tactics are coming from, and rather than sink to that level, an OVERWHELMING and unquestionable show of support is needed for those tactics not to be successful.

Yeah, the kid on the far right in the original is priceless too. His look says it all.

He would have A LOT of catching up to do to out-crazy the current crop of lunatics.

Probably. sigh

Howard Dean. Yeah…he seemed awesome. This timeline is a suckfest, and not in a good way.

Lauren Bobart and Beetlejuice agree!

I went trick or treating with an 88 year old woman (both of us in costume). She raked it in!

Based on your question, you might dig the book “Boat of a Million Years.” The author put quite a bit of thought into just that.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Boat_of_a_Million_Years

Yeah, except I think the mob is/was more trustworthy, better organized, and more qualified for their jobs…probably better food too. Then again, I’m basing pretty much all my knowledge on The Sopranos.

I was not born into wealth, and put myself through college on scholarships. The only reason I’m “wealthy” is because I’ve lived very frugally (and still do), and chose not to have kids. I’m not denying that I’ve had some advantages, and certainly those born into the current economy have it tougher, but overall I’ve eaten a hell of a lot of lentils, don’t subscribe to any streaming services, am not much of a consumer, and enjoy the simple things in life. Obviously not an exhaustive list, but stuff like that. It’s not for everyone, but I’m deeply content and fulfilled.

I would happily vote for the mob over Trump. Any chance that’s still an option?

Joyful, peaceful, content, fulfilled, educated, energetic, with a diverse set of wonderful friends, and a fun, flexible lifestyle. I retired early and wake up every day (whenever I feel like waking up) in a place I love. I laugh a lot and have a close “chosen family” who always has each other’s back. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday is a great beginner sampler, and/or a way to keep it in your life when you don’t have an appetite for the “heavy” stuff.

I just threw up in my mouth a little.