The most important thing to our mom over the holidays was family gathering together. We had several traditions that carried over the years. We’d eat chili and oyster stew served on her Christmas china with gold silverware. She’d bake lots of Christmas goodies, purposely including a favorite treat of each person. There’d be an egg bake and donuts for breakfast at some point as well. My parents would give the grandkids candy cane ornaments every year in different styles. Mom would dress in festive wear, including holiday earrings. And one cannot forget Christmas socks- that was required by all to wear. She worked hard to make the holidays special. What I will miss most of all is sitting in the living room with all of us- laughing, talking, watching the kids play, with either It’s a Wonderful Life or Prancer on tv in the background or playing a game of Rummikub in the dining room. That downtime between eating and gift opening, feeling so very loved and thankful for the time together and memories made. I miss her so much.
