Traditions

I was in line at the grocery store the other day and overheard the clerk ask the person ahead of me if they were ready for the holidays.  Their response was, "I'll be glad when it's over with."  To me, that is so sad.  I don't know their reason for their response.  It could be something in their past that was unpleasant or painful that happened around the holidays.  They could have lost a loved one.  I know several people who are experiencing a loss this holiday season.  I know it's painful, I've been through that myself. 

I love the holidays.  As a child we didn't have a big celebration, a lot of presents, decorations, or big family gatherings.  As an adult I have embraced the holidays and go all out....decorations, getting together with family and friends.  I try not to go overboard on the presents, but try to be thoughtful in my selections.

The one thing besides being with my family that I cherish more are the traditions we've made through the years.  I think those time honored traditions are what makes the holidays special.  I'll share some of mine:

- My children could only open one gift on Christmas Eve.  The gift was a new pair of PJs.  After many years, one of my daughters asked me why they always got new PJs.  I told them it was so they would look pretty for their photos Christmas morning.  I have carried on this tradition with my grandchildren.

- When my children were little, I told them that if they quit believing in Santa Claus, that he would quit coming to see them on Christmas.  I also took them to have pictures made with a 'real' Santa, which when they were growing up there were not alot around with real beards, etc.  I think the last photo I have with them with Santa, the oldest was in high school.

- We could not open our gifts until Christmas morning.  It's over way to quick for me and I wanted the excitement and anticipation to last as long as possible.

We have a number of other traditions, like certain foods that are prepared, etc.  What are some of your traditions?  What is it about the holidays you like the most?  What do you look forward to?  Even if things aren't ideal we are far better off than most people in the world.  I am thankful to live in a country where I can celebrate the holidays and make traditions and memories for me and my family.

May you be happy and celebrate in a way that brings you and those you love joy.

Happy Holidays,

Annette