Comfort and Joy: A Note From the Editor

I had my first cup of hot chocolate last night after a brisk walk in the park near my home, enjoying the cold moon hovering over the pond in the park. Living in Orlando means any temperature drop below 65 degrees feels like an excuse to make cocoa!

My neighborhood, the residents of which are very competitive in the township’s Holiday Decorating Contest, is in the midst of transformation; professional light installers were still on tall ladders, tucking white C9 bulbs along roof lines in the dark. Little forest creatures and a snowman will soon find their way onto my front porch; I’m adding solar powered string lights this year and rechargeable batteries, doing what I can to minimize my carbon footprint.

I have discovered a lot this year. I immersed myself in books like Just Mercy and Untamed, looking to cultivate empathy for myself and for my fellow humans. I learned about writing and relationships and grace. It is my first holiday as a single woman after decades in a marriage; I am developing new rituals and traditions. Candles to be lit, prayers to ascend.

This month, LadyFaire is exploring what the winter holiday means, from ancient Pagan times, through the medieval and Renaissance periods, to contemporary celebrations in Cajun country. We’re getting real about motherhood in the holidays and revisiting wintry fairytales. There’s gorgeous photography and a heavenly playlist. We hope you’ll enjoy and share with your friends.

We’re looking forward to 2026. Hopefully, with the flip of a calendar page, we will enjoy the anticipation of a fresh start full of hope. Meanwhile, find ways to connect with your loved ones. If you’re in a position to holiday shop (we know the economy has been challenging), please consider buying handmade or a service gift certificate from a festival vendor. Whatever your winter holiday looks like, be it pagan, Christian, or secular, we hope it’s celebrated with love and your loved ones.