I love Christmas. There's just something about being with family, celebrating Christ, that brings joy into my life. This year has been tough for all of us to enter in, but yesterday I really felt the joy of this season.

We have always opened gifts on Christmas Eve. This year, Mom added something different. She found some of our old toys and clothes, etc, and wrapped them up. Between opening gifts, we opened those and shared our memories. It was a great time! There was the stuffed bear of David's who I gave a haircut to, the "Talking Teacher" toy that helped me learn to count by twos, the sling that David had when he broke his arm, and several other things that sparked memories. It was a good time and I think we're going to continue this tradition.

It also sparked memories of Christmas past. I remember traveling 6 to 8 hours to see my extended family. When we were younger, we'd switch between the Grandparents. One year we'd spend Thanksgiving with Mom's family and Christmas with Dad's. The next year we'd reverse it. I remember the feasts - especially the pies! One year there was a whole table of pies. Mom made a Bayberry pie that was delicious!

Since Dad's been a pastor, those trips haven't happened very often. Even though at first I liked having just our family celebrate, I do miss the large gatherings. And the elements have changed. I'm no longer the little boy who can't wait to see what his parent's got him for Christmas. I'm a young man who can't wait to see what he got for Christmas! *grins*

I'm especially glad that I got to see my little cousins this year. Even though it wasn't during Christmas, I really had a special time with them. I hope that in years to come we are able to spend more time together.

Ah, now to enjoy Christmas Day. Mom has a ham in the oven that is teasing my nostrils... We also have a Risk game planned!