Because of the time of the year, this is going to be concise.

We humans have a habit of complicating most things. I just finished reading a book entitled “Faces of Christmas Past” by Bill Holm. In the book, he passes on his memories of growing up in southwest Minnesota and the lessons he learned during those years. One message that sprung out from his renderings was to simplify. To value simple actions and pass them on to others.

That interests me. It is a thought that’s passed through my mind a lot lately. It’s a good idea, but how to accomplish it is the question.

So…

Do you think it would be a good idea to simplify our holiday festivities? Yes, we all have our family traditions, and they are to be valued. However, there are probably parts of those traditions that could be reduced or laid to rest.

We always had a total family holiday reunion during my growing up years. However, our families, like many others, spread out across the state and the country, and ended some of those honored family traditions. So what happened?

We began new traditions, and many of them were less complicated. Rather than all the cousins, nephews, aunts, uncles and grandparents gathering together, we started focusing on our immediate family. Those times were just as significant, and a whole lot easier to celebrate. We never forgot our old family — they were/are always with us.

I discovered the same thing happening with wine. At first, I knew nothing about the liquid. Then, my knowledge and sampling grew. A lot of stuff was brought together — the how of wine, the why of wine, the where of wine and the what of it. It soon became apparent that there was a whole bunch of stuff to learn and taste. It all became overwhelming and I began to simplify.

Like a nice chilled glass of Chilean 120 Reserva Especial Sauvignon Blanc, the study of vinology became noticeably clear and refreshing. It’s not necessary to become a sommelier to appreciate vino. Find the level of knowledge you want to experience and follow your instincts. As you simplify wine, the better it tastes.

By the way, try a glass of the noted sauvignon blanc. I think you’ll find its simple straight forward peachy taste and soft floral aromas to be very comforting.

Now, taking my own advice, I draw this writing to a close.

May you enjoy a less complicated holiday season, but don’t ever let the old memories float away.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!