of traditions and life

it's intriguing to me to hear what we all think of the many holiday traditions that surround us at this time of year. some are very positive and happy and pleasant. the family related ones involving baking cookies and cooking lavish meals. locating the perfect christmas tree and decorating it to the hilt with bright lights and passed down ornaments is another favourite. there are carol singing events, food and toy collections points and other "helping" activities with church or school. seeing santa or visiting family, new pjs or new shoes or new stockings. gathering around the tv to watch the latest holiday kids show or the old ones (that are best).

spending time with the children and hubby, my dad reading the children "the night before christmas" on christmas eve after we return from our church's christmas eve service. the little ones like driving around seeing the lights on the houses and trees in the park.

those are all my fun things. the ones that i enjoy, the ones that evoke happy memories and make me smile.

but i also know that so many people dread the holiday season. i just can't get into that frame of mind. i know the whys of it. i just won't let it be me. there's too much expectation, too much family, too much spending, too much MUCH. . .

that part makes me sad. . .since to me the real reason behind christmas is not the gift getting or spending. it's the family and fun and excitement. it's lights and the tree and the candles and the cold weather, the tree, the cookies, and yes, the children's excitement.

happy christmas to all and to all a good night :-)