Getting more in the Christmas spirit each day. I love Christmas! It’s by far my most favorite time of year. I strongly believe you get out of Christmas what you put into it. I remember as a kid, the things my parents did for my brother and me to make Christmas so special. The excitement of getting to stay up late on Christmas Eve was a huge treat. (I figured out after becoming a parent that this is all strategy. Let the kids stay up…wear themselves out trying to hold out to see Santa…then they will hopefully sleep a little later on Christmas morning. May work for most kids but not for my middle child, Casey. Casey ran circles around Santa, his elves, his reindeer and his parents)!
On Christmas Eve afternoon we would start out by delivering gifts to friends and family. After it got dark, mom and dad would grab their “Christmas cheer” (cocktail…usually scotch) and we would roam the streets looking at the beautiful lights and decorations. The only two Santa’s in Houston back in the early 50’s, since there were no malls, was either visit Santa at Foley’s downtown or Santa at Mrs. Baird’s Bakery. The one at Mrs. Baird’s always seem to have more spunk. He sat in his sleigh with all the reindeer in front and had to drink “something” to keep him warm. Hence, the spunk part! The Foley’s Santa was inside where it was warm.
Getting home from our annual adventure, mom would have us all dress in our flannel red pajamas. Yes, they all matched!! We were as they say in “elf land” …identical! Mother even went as far as getting matching house shoes. Which my brother would always loose at least one. Very clever on his part to not have to wear them. We looked like Santa’s “throw back” elves.
The TV shows that I treasure this time of year are “White Christmas” with Bing Crosby, “Miracle on 34TH Street”, the original with Natalie Wood, the cartoon version of “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” where Burl Ives narrates, And of course Our family cookie night favorite “Christmas Vacation”.
As I have mentioned in last Monday’s update, Lani and I have a couple of outings planned in the next two weeks. Our annual visit to the Alley to see “A Christmas Carol” and to TUT’s to see the musical “White Christmas”. This is the first time to see “White Christmas”. I’m sure it will be wonderful.
Enjoying getting rid of the chemo fog. Everyday I feel stronger and ready to get my life back on track. I appreciate you hanging with me and letting me reminiscence about Christmas past. My wish is that we all have many more wonderful Christmas Eve’s together and that we do not forget the love in giving. Remember each morning is a joyous sunrise gift from God. Expect great things!
Ride,Baby,Ride! and a big hug,
Leilani
