What's your favorite memory of Christmas? I asked L what was her favorite family tradition of ours. I was surprised by her answer. I thought it would be putting the star on the top of the tree with Daddy or baking cookies with me (which we did today). Her answer showed me how much she has changed since coming to live with us four years ago. Are you ready for her answer? She replies, "Getting gifts for others and keeping it secret." Definitely her father's daughter. Her tenderness toward others often overwhelms me.
My favorite memory growing up is today - the date - December 18th. Why? It was my father's birthday. He would be 88 today had he been alive. This is a man I never really knew, except from family stories. Dad passed away two months after I was born. He was 44. However, this date was a tradition in my family. Mom said that Dad always wanted to celebrate his birthday by decorating the tree and spending time with family. That's what we did until Mom died. Every December 18th, Mom and I would decorate our tree, bake cookies, and have a nice dinner. Sometimes my nieces, JJ and Linda, would join in the fun. So what did I do with my day today? Made cookies - Glen's grandmother's sand tarts and my sister's peanut butter balls. L, M, and I had flour everywhere, listened to Christmas carols, and created memories.
I also want to wish another family member a happy birthday! My niece, H, was born eight years ago on her great-grandfather's birthday. They are off celebrating as a family in Colorado, yet my heart is very close to them. Happy birthday to two special people - Dad and H! I love you both!!!
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