A Christmas Moment Close to My Heart | Jan’s Blog
As the year winds down and the lights begin to twinkle across the orchard, I find myself taking a slightly different approach this December – I’m pausing. Maybe you are too. If we let it, the season invites an honest check-in with ourselves. How are we feeling, really? Are we carrying more than we let on?
And because I’m asking those questions of myself as much as of you, I decided to do something this year that is just for me.
On December 20th as dusk approaches in the courtyard at Merridale, surrounded by all the Christmas displays and soft twinkling lights, I’ve invited award-winning guitarist Eric Harper and my long-time friend Chris Gray to join me in singing some heartfelt Christmas carols. Chris and I actually sang together as children on CBC – a part of my past I rarely speak about. I’ve missed singing more than I realized. Returning to those simple, familiar melodies feels like a way of filling my own cup, reconnecting with a part of myself I’ve long set aside. Doing it with two people I adore and admire makes it even more meaningful.
So yes, this piece of my story is a little vulnerable, but it’s also a reminder: sometimes going back to your roots is exactly what your spirit needs. If you choose to join us on this night, I hope the carol singing fills your heart with some Christmas love, just as I know it will fill mine. Who knows – maybe you’ll want to join in? The more the merrier, and I would be thrilled to see you.
In many ways, this small act of doing something I love has made me think more deeply about the season itself – how much of life is a balance of giving and receiving love. That simple exchange is at the centre of everything we do at Merridale. It’s why this season has felt especially meaningful as we stretch into new ways of giving back. Our first-ever Santa photo experience supporting charity has been a bright spot, as was Hounds for Harvest earlier this fall. We’ve had a few growing pains while finding our rhythm, and I’m grateful for your patience as we learn. Behind every bottle, plate, and experience is a team of people who pour intention, care, and heart into everything they create. I am deeply grateful for them.
And that gratitude extends to you. Thank you for caring about how things are made, for choosing local – whether by visiting the farm, sharing a meal, or bringing our cider or spirits into your celebrations. As a woman leading this company, your trust and support mean more than I can express. You allow us to keep giving back – to the land, to the craft, and to the community that makes Merridale what it is.
As we move into Christmas, I hope you’ll gift yourself the same kindness you offer others. Ask yourself what you truly need this season – not what you “should” do. What memories do you want to create? What traditions do you want to carry forward?
However you celebrate, I hope you find moments of real connection, warmth, and joy. And if Merridale becomes even a small part of that, it means the world to me and my team.
May you find joy, peace, and play this holiday season.
