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It's
Christmas in November. Stores are full of
green and red decorations, twinkling colored lights, silver and gold wrapped packages and all sorts of toy displays. Even though commercialism has long since exploited the holiday season, and the decorations are out before the Harvest Festival candy is eaten or the Thanksgiving Turkey is on the table ... I enjoy it. I LOVE Christmas and everything it represents. Spiritually, traditionally, and emotionally. I love the celebrations, the story of Jesus' birth, the softer side of people you see. I enjoy the electricity and excitement in the air too!
I do, however, observe the LEAST self control of all during the holidays. I
love to give presents. It thrills me to see the joy on the faces of those I'm closest to. I've always tried to make Christmas a happy memory for my kids...even during the hardest of times. I miss my grown children and grandkids so, it's
very difficult for me to celebrate without them. But, I'll find a way to make sure they know I'm there in spirit and
that will bring me as much joy as if I were sitting there watching them rip off the pretty paper.
Our family usually goes to church on Christmas Eve so that Christmas morning is ours. We hang out in comfy clothes (sweats, etc.) and have a nice breakfast...then graze and snack all day. No formal meal for us. We watch a new dvd, play a new board game (usually everyone gets a movie, a book, a game or some dice/cards and some sweats for Christmas in addition to a few other items).
What is your favorite holiday and what family traditions do you have?