You asked about holidays in prison, and it's a question I get a lot! It’s definitely one of the toughest times to be incarcerated because you’re so acutely aware of what you’re missing on the outside. But surprisingly, our dorm really pulled together to make the best of it, creating our own unique traditions. For Christmas, it was all about creativity and making do with what little we had. We couldn't have real trees, of course, but we’d make makeshift decorations from anything we could get our hands on – paper, empty snack bags, even pieces of fabric. Some of the women were incredibly talented at crafting tiny ornaments, turning discarded materials into something beautiful. Gifts were usually care packages from outside, but within the dorm, we'd organize small, informal exchanges of handmade items or shared snacks. I vividly remember one Christmas where we pooled our commissary funds for a 'secret Santa' with a strict budget, usually just a few dollars for candy or coffee packets. The kitchen staff sometimes tried to make a slightly fancier meal, though it was still prison food, just with a bit more effort to make it feel special. We’d also try to sing carols quietly in our common area, which helped lift spirits and brought a sense of normalcy, however fleeting. Halloween was surprisingly fun, considering the circumstances. Obviously, no elaborate costumes were allowed, but women would get really creative with makeup from their commissary – using coffee grounds for eyeliner or crushed candy for blush. We'd gather in the common area to tell ghost stories, and sometimes the staff, if they were in a good mood, would allow us to watch a Halloween-themed movie. Treats were a big deal; a communal candy stash, shared from what people had in their cells, became the highlight. For many, it was a chance to momentarily escape the harsh reality and just be silly, to feel like a kid again for a few hours. Easter was a bit more subdued but still recognized and observed in its own way. There were often special religious services available for those who wanted to attend, offering a moment of spiritual solace. The kitchen might try to serve a slightly better breakfast or a small sweet treat, like a piece of cake. We’d sometimes get coloring pages or simple craft supplies to make cards for our families, which was a really important way to feel connected to the outside world, even if just through a drawing. It was a time for quiet reflection, hope, and community. No matter the holiday, the sense of community in our dorm became even stronger. We relied on each other to get through the tougher emotional days, offering comfort and understanding. It was a constant reminder that even in the most restrictive environments, people find ways to celebrate, to connect, and to hold onto hope. It wasn't 'holidays as usual,' but it was our version, born out of necessity and resilience, and it taught me a lot about the human spirit.