Thinking of Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone!

Memories of Christmas past gave my heart a big smile tonight. I remember when Christmas meant everyone staying the night at Mom's house. Christmas Eve meant opening Grandma's gift, (and that usually meant pajamas for everyone)then games or movies and food until 11pm church service. I have to smile at even the things I hated doing at the time, which was putting out all the luminaries (the candles in the paper bags) and how it seemed like such a chore.

Christmas was being home. Christmas was Church on Christmas Eve with my family, and definitely the excitement and anticipation of the presents that we would open in the morning.

My brothers and I are all grown up now, and have families of our own. Mom sold that house, and moved to Texas. Most of my brothers have moved away. Things have changed so much. I'm not sure if it works for all memories the same way, but the ones I have of Christmas in my youth are so strong, and special.

It seemed that Chris fell asleep every Christmas eve at church service. And, I may be mistaken ( I really don't think I am) but it seems to me that the last hymn sung each year was Silent Night. The whole congregation gave that song special attention. I don't think there was one person that didn't join in and sing that song with all their enthusiasm, and strength. It was like magic.

For a few years Mom and Ralph were Youth Leaders. I'm not sure how they pulled it off, but they got our young men and women in the church to go caroling, and took us to the old-folks home each year. Maybe I hated that most... or liked that part most... not sure because I remember the urine smell and/or maybe the sterilization smells, but I also remember the big smiles of all the old people that we gave socks or other items. They were so happy to see us, and maybe the most thankful for something so small than anyone I have ever seen since.

I have lots of other great memories, and especially thoughts on my favorite Christmas gifts that I have received, but I will save those for another time.

I wish you all the most merryiest of Christmas'

Andrew