Our Holiday Season

As we move past summer, through fall and watch the first snows fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmases past dance in my mind with images of costumes, tasty baking, putting the extensions into the dining table and hearing my grown children banter about who would be seated at the table on a "chair" rather than on a bench. I still smile over those memories. I was just so glad so many faces were seated and sharing the spirit of a holiday season event.

Tastes of goodies prepared for entrees (ham, turkey, roast, etc.), desserts plus traditional items (Dad's fruit salad) have always been part of celebrating. Some of the same goodies are reappearing, seeking new enthusiasts. Now that my children are grown with homes and children of their own, I might add to meal preparations (upon request) usually hosted by one of my children.

At first that seemed foreign and a bit like my role had been usurped, but gradually it has meant I can find greater peace and relaxation visiting with everyone and giving attention to grandchildren.

There is no end to my pleasure at seeing the creativity for some of these family traditions as they are passed along...

Denise with "Nubby" as a pink fairy-butterfly and "Madi" as the cutest Halloween Witch.

Even Nathan enjoys the traditions he grew up with... 

Lois Harris (Mom #2) and her family help him to find joy in celebrating!

Staci will host Christmas for Nat and I this year. It's been 12 years since she's celebrated that holiday with us. I haven't decided if I'll put up my tree and decorate in my tiny apartment, as yet. I love Christmas decor and will enjoy every light, bow and candle that emerges before me this year.

Staci asked about my food preferences and such, but I'm looking forward to her style in celebrating - amid what might be a busy work schedule for her (yet to be determined).

The evolution from leading in household tradition setting to witnessing those traditions being passed along is quite wonderful. I've seen the grandchildren learning to dress up for roles in the Nativity as my children carry forth reading the scriptures and retelling the story annually. I had three girls to bide for the role of Mary, and Rayanne only has boys... but the story is always retold.

We used to race about on Christmas Eve (after dinner), singing carols and dropping off treats to friends and family and Rayanne has carried on that tradition while Denise choses to be a secret Santa to show her love and concern for others.

My hope is that everyone reading this and those who I hold in favorite memories will find joy in the coming holiday season. Consider renewing an old tradition or creating a new one that will make your life richer or the lives of others more love filled.

Talk to you soon...

Happy Holidays and

Merry Christmas!