I'm a big fan of the holiday season; in fact, it's always a joyous time that graces us with the privilege to not only relax and reflect but also connect with friends and loved ones. Even though this particular holiday was quite awkward compared to others due to the fact that I celebrated most of it alone, I still had some wonderful experiences that became the highlight of the festive season, and in this article I'll be telling you all about it.
The major reason why I had to celebrate the festive season alone, like I've said before, is because, one, how short the holiday break I was given at work was, and two, how my work keeps interfering with the little time I had to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with my loved ones, but then after everything calmed down a little, I decided to travel to see my relatives in Ijebu Ode like I said I would prior to the holiday season, and despite the fact that I only spent a few hours with them, it was what ended up being the highlight of the festive season for me.
So the plan was to travel down to Ijebu on the first of January to see them, but I couldn't make it because of some unforeseen circumstances, such as neighbors gifting me too much food for me to leave behind and the inability to get a vehicle at the park after waiting several hours without seeing any due to the numbers of passengers at the park. Well, to cut the long story short, I traveled very early the next day to Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, and the experiment was mind-blowing.
The journey down was full of anticipation because it's been a while since I saw many of those I was told were around for the holiday, and upon arrival it was a pleasant experience to see all their faces once again. I was received with a warm smile and heartfelt hugs that got me literally excited and gave me a sense of belonging that has been lacking during Christmas and New Year's Day spent alone.
That alone has made the travel worth it for me, but then we stepped inside, and the fun increased. I was offered water, food, and drinks, which I ate and reminisced on different conversations with everyone in the house. You know it's always an avenue to visit old memories, laugh about them, and as well catch up on each and everyone's present live experience, which goes on to light up my mood.
And the highlight of the season that stood out the most for me was my encounters with my nephews and nieces, who came to greet me joyfully. As you all know, kids are always excited about the festive season, as it's the time of the year where they'll receive loads of gifts from their uncles and aunties and even have enough to eat and drink. As they came to greet me, I gave them the gift I came with alongside some cash; it was an exciting sight to behold as I saw them jumping with joy and counting how much each of them has made during this season.
It reminded me of when I myself was young and we used to do the same; it's just interesting how time flies, and we that used to be the ones in their position are now the ones giving. Trust me, life is beautiful; after the meal and conversation, we indulge in some games and more conversations.
And when it was getting late, I quickly had to bid my farewell and leave. Even though they tried to convince me not to leave, I can't help but leave, though I myself would have loved to wait, but I've got plans for the next day. Overall, my trip to Ijebu Ode was the highlight of the season for me, showing the beauty of family connection and how it brings about joy and meaning to our lives, and it's been a call to order for me to cherish each moment I've had with loved ones and to always avail myself of time to be with them, being the pathway to our most cherished memories, and that's why I said it's what stands out more about my holiday season.
Here is my entry for the Januaryinleo day 4 and Cleanplanet prompt hosted by 
All photos are mine.
