Why College Football Brought Me to Tears...

Saturday may have been one of the greatest days of my life. (And, no, it had nothing to do with Black Friday shopping.)

The drought was over! Michigan’s football team FINALLY beat Ohio State — the first time in almost 10 years!

And, I like to think my dad, Ed Faris, had something to do with it. 

My dad passed away in 2019 after battling a debilitating stroke. But, before he passed, I was able to take him to one last Michigan football game at the Big House. It was and remains the most special moment I’ve ever had with him. Here’s a photo of us from that day. 💙

You see, football was never just a sport. It wasn’t just a game. To us — dad and daughter — Michigan football was OUR thing. Dad graduated from the University of Michigan and instilled his love for the Wolverines in me, his youngest daughter. Growing up 25 minutes from the university, Saturdays during football season were reserved for tailgating and cheering on the Maize and Blue. My connection to Michigan football is deep and emotional — so, no, Saturday wasn’t just a game. 

And, I felt my dad in every moment. I laid his Michigan football shirt out on our living room chair. His U.S. Marine Corps photo was placed on our coffee table with a view of the game on TV. I wore his signature Michigan sweatshirt with an emblazoned “M” and his name, EDDIE, above.

Tears of joy after the game. Dad, they did it!! It wasn’t just a game. And, it never has been. 

How Martha Stewart Saved My Christmas

I know you’ve come to expect life-changing hacks and tips from me, such as saving Thanksgiving with the “baby turkey,” aka the rotisserie chicken. 

So, this week, let’s save your Christmas tree decorating. 

I’ve long had grandiose visions of a peaceful evening decorating the tree which looks a little like this: clutching something warm to drink, everyone getting along, singing our favorite holiday songs, recounting stories of Christmas past. 

THAT. HAS. NEVER. HAPPENED. 

So, I’ve let go of the expectations. I’ve tried to make it fun for the kids. Which means creating our own tradition of ornament tossing. 

It started about 7 years ago when I got a box of shatterproof Martha Stewart ornaments. The kids proceeded to toss the ornaments onto the tree, attempting to get them to “stick”. Next thing you know, we had a new tradition, aka competition. 

Who can land the most ornaments? 

And, the good thing about it? You only need one hand. So, it’s perfect to clutch that warm drink in the other. 

Thank you, Martha Stewart. 

(For another fun Christmas decorating tradition, make sure you listen to my latest podcast with NYT bestselling author Jen Hatmaker linked below.)

EPISODE 43 — Picking Up The Pieces — New York Times bestselling author, Jen Hatmaker, is opening up about overcoming a year of grief, how she learned to get through it instead of over it, and she shares her advice for making it through the holidays after going through a divorce or losing someone you love. LISTEN NOW

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FARIS FAVORITES

1. 5 Ingredient Salsa –– Pomegranate, lime, cilantro, pear and red onion. You’ll be making this on REPEAT the next month and everyone will be begging for the recipe. You’re welcome. 

2. My tip to stay sane this season in the midst of the chaos? Some say take a deep breath, I say... DANCE PARTY! 

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Cue up the house with music and dance like no one is watching!  Whether it’s to get the day going, or while you’re cooking dinner, sing out loud and feel your spirits soar.

3. Shatterproof Ornaments. Available EVERYWHERE.