Where did 2025 go? Another year has passed, quicker than the ones before & Christmas is here! I happily admit, I love Christmas & I am enjoying it. The decorating, baking, cooking, planning, shopping, wrapping & all the trappings of our family traditions, it has been fun. With the holidays however, I have also become more reflective. Remembering Christmas past, celebrating Christmas present with an eye towards Christmas future.
I think of Christmas’ from years ago with the hanging of pretty ornaments on my tree. I remember those that gifted me these beautiful things & the fun times we shared. I remember decorating the tree together & the laughs we shared & memories we made. I take out stained pieces of paper written in loved one’s handwriting to make cherished cookies, pies & cakes. As I carefully mix & bake, now with my grandchildren, I share stories about our family & those who made Christmas so special. I am creating new family traditions with them while sharing prior ones. I play the same Christmas carols I heard in my younger years as I hear the voice of my father in my mind singing along to his favorites. My children and grandchildren help set the tables with 40 year old china and my mother’s 75 year old silverware for a special Christmas Eve dinner. My grandkids fold linen napkins in pretty shapes and carefully place crystal goblets next to each place setting.
The ritual of gift giving on Christmas Eve at grandma’s house makes for much merriment & excitement is a special evening of laughs & love. The big event of Christmas Day dinner & family festivities, has been handed off to my daughter & her family. We believe children should be home for Christmas and the passing on of our beloved family tradition is an homage to my parents.
As I am finishing up last minute things & get ready for Santa’s arrival, I know I will be savoring every second & enjoying every moment. While many times we find ourselves just rushing through things just to get them done I am enjoying it all. Whatever your traditions are, embrace them, celebrate them and enjoy them. The memories and special times spent with family and friends are priceless and are the only things that truly matter especially as the years fly by.
Make lots of memories & Merry Christmas to all!
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