How do you begin the new year? Paul and I begin each year with two long-standing traditions:

Our first New Year tradition starts early on January 1^st. Wearing our pajamas, we cross the US-Canada border for a family breakfast.

Yes, international borders notwithstanding, pajamas are de rigueur for everyone. As if we all just rolled out of bed and ambled into Mamma’s kitchen.

Our pajama-clad clan celebrates its Greek and Italian heritage, beginning with traditional Greek carols (κάλαντα). Clanging triangles are the classic accompaniment, but jangling keys surely suffice.

Then, endless cups of caffe latte complement two essential Italian holiday baked sweets: Panettone, a tall bread studded with candied fruit. And pandoro, a towering bread shaped like an 8-pointed star and dusted with powdered sugar.

Lastly, we cut the traditional Greek New Year’s cake, vasilopita (βασιλόπιτα).

Our second New Year tradition runs through the year. Because Paul and I choose One Word to clarify, crystallize, and catalyze change during all 12 months.

We’ve followed the One Word practice for years. For us, it’s proven more thoughtful, intentional, and helpful than typical New Year resolutions.

Because you, too, may find the practice meaningful, purposeful, and powerful, we’re sharing why and how to find your One Word.

Reader, however you begin, whatever the journey may bring, here’s to a joyful golden 2026 for you and yours!

Until next time,

Travel on, sparkle on, meaningfully✨

Marilee + Paul Kostadimas
Spotlight Sojourns | Slow Travel
​with the Hidden Gemologists®

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PS: Click HERE to read our article, “One Word Resolutions and Your New Year Resolutions Essay.”​

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