I was realizing as I ran upstairs to wrap more presents that I feel rushed because we are rushed. Instead of cutting back on our daily life, we are trying to shoehorn in a celebration. Note to self: cut back.

I really enjoy Hannukah. I love the atavistic level of it--fire to push back the dark. In Seattle, it's getting dark at 4:22 these days. That's a lot of dark to push back. Seeing our three menorahs glowing by the window fulfills me on a deep level. I also love to give presents, eat holiday foods, sing (we haven't done nearly enough of that), and revel in the holiday time.