The Romjul Week

The week between Christmas and New Years has always been my favorite week of the year.

When growing up, I remember hanging out all week in the living room–yes, the room we rarely touched the rest of the year. The tree always stayed lit, and holiday music was played. My sister and I each claimed a corner of the living room as our personal spot. Somehow, we’d each create a fort of sorts, where we’d arrange our presents and have our own space to relax.

“Company” of friends and family would stop by. There would always be a plate of yummy cookies to nibble on. And the holiday leftovers would be gourmet meals until they were gone.

What a tranquil time to spend at home, undisturbed by the outside world, unless we chose to do so.

I have recently learned that there is an actual term associated with this week. In Norway, the time between Christmas and New Years is called “Romjul.” And this word isn’t just meant for the days on the calendar. It is actually a mindset. Romjul allows for relaxing with friends and family and time spent guilt-free on long walks, reading books, or just snuggling on the couch watching a movie.

I love that my own teenage daughters have now marked this week as sacred family time. Life gets busy and leads me to forget the simple reasons for daily living. I appreciate how they have reminded me that there should be little expectations for the week. I feel like this week is almost more Christmas-y than December 25th itself. Holiday activities are still plentiful. Decorations are still up at the stores and light displays are still glowing. We just purchased gingerbread house kits at the store (and now they’re half off LOL!)

I was fortunate to snag a few days off from work. Now, I am also focusing on crafting, decluttering small areas, and completing projects that have been left untouched for months. There’s time for fresh air and Hallmark holiday movies, too.

And no one is counting the coffee and cookies consumed this week. They taste more delicious than usual.