There’s something magical about experiencing Christmas through the eyes of a child who still believes in Saint Nick. It brings excitement and anticipation of what he’ll leave under the tree on Christmas morning. But no matter how old you are, there’s still something magical about Christmas morning.

With the Christmas season comes family traditions — traditions that may be a little silly, while others bring emotions out that remind us of a particular Christmas or maybe a loved one that is no longer with us. 

For me, Christmas brings back memories of a time that seemed so simple, a time when my biggest worry as a kid was if Santa was going to accidentally pass my house without stopping. I always wondered after our visit at the Sears and Roebuck store, “Did Santa understand exactly what I wanted for Christmas?” The man never took notes, so how was he going to remember what I asked for? 

After all, I could not have been any clearer on what gift I wanted! I can only think of maybe two times that he forgot. You know, he does have a long list with a lot of names which makes his job awfully difficult.

When it comes to traditions, there are a few that my wife and I have passed on to our children. First, we never miss our Christmas Eve service at the First United Methodist Church with great music, an inspiring message, and the lighting of the candles. 

My wife’s side of the family includes six brothers and sisters who all have children and grandchildren of their own. Everyone has done their part to add to the family tree, which means we now have a lot of youngsters running around.  

Each year after the Christmas Eve church service, we gather as a family of 40-plus at one house for food and the passing out of matching Christmas pajamas. The pajama crusade has been a long-standing tradition that can be difficult for one person to handle on their own with the gathering of sizes and placing the order. 

But one thing that has stood the test of time is the annual building of the human pyramid, everybody donning their new pajamas. The only thing that has changed over the years with the pyramid is who is on the bottom, as people change due to fluctuation in sizes! (Hopefully I’m not offending any family reading this!)

Another tradition for us takes place on Christmas morning as we bake cinnamon rolls, place a candle in one, and sing happy birthday to Jesus. This tradition has gone on for 44 years! 

After everyone has celebrated and opened gifts Christmas morning at their own homes, all will gather at the grandparents for round two of more food, fun and games along with the exchange of gifts.  

While throughout the years we have joyfully welcomed new members into the family, we have sadly lost others and miss them dearly. But this is all a part of life itself. Nothing ever stays the same. 

With age comes growing appreciation for the blessings of getting to be a part of such a loving family. People you can lean and count on in time of need. People who know who you are and what you’ve been through. 

So, this Christmas, become a kid again and take the time to count your blessings and enjoy your family! Because you never know when it might be the last time you get to spend a Christmas together. Merry Christmas, everyone!!!