Every Friday and Saturday, I get to pick from articles submitted to us by minnows for consideration in answering the Ladies of Hive weekly prompt by the moderators. Except for this week because we are on a break! So... there is no particular theme.

It is a privilege to curate for #MSP-Curation every Saturday as a part of the @Minnowsupport initiative. "Peace, Abundance, Liberty" is the motto of PAL, which supports all Hive users, but notably the minnows.

And what a wonderful opportunity to pick five articles from Ladies of Hive, which is my main focus!

@moclassic

Enjoying the holidays despite missing the magic feeling of harmattan.

I miss those days as a young girl sledding downhill on flattened cardboard with my siblings till our clothes turned brown with dust. Coming home to Mama's hot tea boiled with ginger to soothe our sore throats from playing out in the wind all day. Those memories seem far away now with only hot sun still beating us the same as before Christmas.
We still enjoyed the holidays together with my siblings, cousins, aunties and grandparents. We feasted on jollof rice and danced to music, better than having no celebration at all together. But in my heart I had hoped the special chill winds would blow in this year like old times.
I wanted so much to feel that magic feeling of harmattan arriving right on time as it used to for the festive season when I believed as a child that it was part of Christmas itself. But adult life tells me the wind patterns just vary each year.
Now the Christmas eating and visiting is finished and daily life starts again. The air just stays thick with humidity all day, no sign of the dry harmattan breezes I pray for.
I try not to feel too disappointed. I remind myself that time with loving family and giving thanks is what truly matters most about the holidays, not the weather. But still I wonder if next Christmas when December returns, my old friend harmattan will also return with its gift of cooling breeze.
For now I wait and pray for even a short visit of the winds, even if late this year. I will celebrate next Christmas with joy, hot or cold, with my family whom I cherish. But I wish to feel that magic of harmattan arrival just one more time. To be reminded of simpler days when the winds could bring wonder to a child ready to believe.

https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@moclassic/whispers-of-harmattan-a-nostalgic-christmas-tale

@seunnara

Expecting a boring Christmas, @seunnara had a pleasant surprise!

Sharing my Christmas experience with you is a privilege I am so grateful for, I believe the prayers of my friends on Hive were answered in a way. Although, it was not answered the way I wanted it but it was actually answered in a more unique way.
I was expecting a boring Christmas but I got a pleasant and eventful one. In one of my previous posts, I said I wished to spend my Christmas with my extended family and that I want to see them again. On getting to my mom's place, I could see that the Chickens she was rearing are now big and I was expecting her to put them up for sale. To my surprise, she said they are gifts to her brothers and sisters and I am to go and deliver it to them at their different locations.
I was happy because I get to see them again. I saw my nephews and nieces all grown and some of them couldn't recognize me again. It was a great reunion for me as we were sharing our past experiences and also planning a get together party. I was given gifts in cash and kind. All these happened before Christmas day.

https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@seunnara/2023-christmas-an-answered-prayer

@limaescritora

With her house decorated and organized, @limaescritora showscase her home!

Almost seven years ago I bought a house, "my house", a long-cherished dream from an early age. At 21 I had my own house in a country where such a goal usually becomes utopian. I had achieved it. I thought then that I would be happy. Finally I would leave my parents' house, where I had to swallow so many bitter pills and that there I would have the peace that I longed for so much and I would be happy... But no, I had to learn that happiness was not about that.
This end of the year I want to give myself CONGRATULATIONS, in capital letters, for my resilience, for the perseverance that has always characterized me and of which I am aware today. I had my house closed for a long time after the loss of the most important person in my life, being there put my finger in my mouth so I had to find a way to move forward but without more pain.
Finally I am in my little house, where I should never have left, because by fleeing from suffering I ultimately paid the price dearly, but, I do not regret it, I learned a lot in the process. A month ago I decided to repair it and move again, I don't know the number, I've already lost count, I just know that I'm happy to have met my last goal of the year. It was not easy in the midst of the unfavorable economic situation that I have been in for some time, but I achieved it, and as always I had the support of unconditional friends, they have been the best of my year, a very hard year, but one that has meant recognition for me. the really important things and people. I have healed, I have grown emotionally and I am at peace with the reality that I have had to live, all of that, once and for all in "MY HOME".

https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@limaescritora/my-last-goal-of-the

@dedhien

@dedhien and her friends explored the city of Batam, Indonesia!

Our first stop was at Nagoya Hill Mall, where we indulged in a shopping spree, discovering unique local crafts and trendy fashion finds. The lively marketplace added a touch of cultural richness to our day.
Eager to savor the local flavors, we ventured into the heart of the city to experience Batam's renowned culinary scene. At a bustling street food market, we feasted on savory seafood dishes, from freshly grilled fish to spicy prawns.
With satisfied stomachs, we decided to explore the waterfront area. Taking a stroll along Barelang Bridge, we were captivated by the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
As the night fell, we headed to Batam's entertainment district. The lively pubs and bars came alive with music and laughter. We danced the night away, surrounded by the energy of the city's nightlife.
The next day, we embraced the tranquility of Batam's nature by visiting the Ocarina Park. Surrounded by lush greenery, we enjoyed a leisurely boat ride and immersed ourselves in the serenity of the park. It was a refreshing contrast to the vibrant city life.
To complete our adventure, we couldn't miss out on a spa experience. Batam is famous for its relaxing massages, and we treated ourselves to a rejuvenating spa session, leaving us revitalized and ready to face the bustling world once again.
As we bid farewell to Batam, we carried with us not just memories of the beautiful sights and delicious cuisine but also the warmth of the friendships strengthened during this unforgettable trip. Batam had truly charmed us with its unique blend of culture, nature, and excitement.

https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@dedhien/ladiesofhive-holidays-with-friends

@ayomipo

It was the birthday of @ayomipo's mother, and they gave her a party!

Spend quality time together. Whether it's going out for a nice meal or simply having a chat over a cup of coffee, spending time with your mother is a great way to show your appreciation.
Mothers can be annoying sometimes and also loving at the same time, Saying "thank you." It's important to let your mother know how much you appreciate all that she does. A simple "thank you" can go a long way.
Give a meaningful gift. If you're looking for a way to show your gratitude, consider, so today we decided to bake cake and also open a small party where everyone can come and celebrate with her and dance with her.
And I'm so glad we put a smile on her face and she smiling effortlessly is our greatest joy 😊😊

https://peakd.com/hive-124452/@ayomipo/celebrating-my-mothers-day

Each of these articles have been upvoted by @minnowsupport. Thank you @minnowsupport for this tremendous initiative and for your support!

😍#ilikeitalot!😍