Here are my answers to this week’s SYW from pensitivity101

1.  What is your favourite Christmas (or traditional) memory?
I have two special memories – one from my childhood and one more recent. As a child, on Christmas Eve, my mother would read ‘The Night Before Christmas’ by Clement C. Moore to us. Afterward, we’d attend midnight mass, and upon returning, we’d enjoy a warm drink and a mince pie, with the special treat of opening one present before bed. My second precious memory was reading ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ by Dr. Seuss to my grandchildren when they were younger.

2.  Do you think merchandise is sold too early for these celebrations?
It is always a surprise to see Christmas stuff in the shops so early in the year but it’s probably a good thing to be prepared. You don’t have to buy if you don’t want to.

3.  Do you decorate your house with ribbons, streamers, tinsel etc?
Certainly, I did when our children were growing up and I hosted Christmas dinners. For many years, we spent Christmas with relatives on the farm, and these gatherings were grand, with tables beautifully decorated. There would always be a kids’ table and an adult table, both festively adorned. Now, that our daughter has moved to Plettenberg Bay we spend the holidays with her. It is a smaller affair with usually just ten of us compared to the twenty or more on the farm, and she decorates splendidly.

4.  What is your least favourite Christmas song?
I don’t particularly have a least favourite. I find pleasure in listening to Christmas songs in the shops during the festive season, and I adore carols.

Gratitude

The grand celebrations of Christmas past have given way to more intimate festivities. Nowadays, we cherish the holidays by spending time together, embarking on enjoyable outings, and enjoying each other’s company. On Christmas morning, we exchange gifts from our Secret Santa, and come lunchtime, we partake in a sumptuous Christmas feast to which everyone contributes. Reflecting on the various ways we’ve spent the holidays over the years fills me with gratitude, especially for having a family that embraces the true spirit of Christmas.