I'm a Believer

Almost time to share the bounty that is Christmas. Cookies, presents, wrapping, decorations,music,candles, and midnight Mass. I have so many memories of Christmas and I am pretty sure I can tell you something about each and every one. I am a believer. Always have been and probably always will be, thanks to some very convincing parents and a bit of serendipity.

Every year on Christmas Eve, we took the trip to Grandma's house and did, in fact, go over the river and through the woods. Since I was the first grandchild and had an uncle and had four aunts, it was especially exciting for all of them to have a child in the house for Christmas once again.

It seemed to take such an awfully long time to drive to Grandma's, but my dad made it exciting by helping me spot Rudolph at houses along the way. Sure hoped we could  beat him, but the car seemed so slow. When we arrived at the farm, my aunt Peggy took me to the barn to hear the animals talk, and all the way to the barn told me how this miracle happens. I could hardly believe my ears when I heard what they had to say!

When we arrived back at the house my grandfather poured the adults his homemade elderberry wine. I would have to wait many years to try that wine, but it was so warm and cozy in the kitchen with all of the adults gathered around. All of a sudden we heard hoofbeats on the roof! Then we heard sleigh bells jingling and ho, ho, ho's booming in the night! My heart was pounding and I am sure my eyes were as big as saucers when I heard feet stomping in Grandma's living room. We heard a loud,"Merrrrry Christmas... ho ho ho!", and then .......it was quiet. The adults led me into the living room where the tree was lit with hundreds of colored lights and beautifully wrapped presents nearly filled the room.

That year my aunt Bonita gave me my first pair of figure skates and a Cinderella watch with a blue strap that came in a glass slipper. I felt so happy,so safe, and surrounded by love.Everyone ate cookies, laughed, talked, and played games until it was time to pack up the car and head home in the freezing white night. As we pulled into town there was not even one car parked on Main Street...............but we did see a bearded man in a red suit walking down the street.

May you experience the miracles of the everyday as well as the extraordinary. Merry Christmas!