Christmas Traditions...Starting a Christmas Tradition 28 years ago, I set myself up for some bittersweet tears.
Each year, I add a new ornament to our tree for each child and one for our family.
The tree is loaded with memories and tells a story that is unique to our family and the many Christmas celebrations we have enjoyed together.
The plan as always been, upon marrying, each child receives their ornaments for their own tree.
Ahhh, you are saying, how nice. Well it is nice, until.....the children get married and you actually have to part with all of those memories. Two years ago, Curt received his ornaments and this year, Jeffrey will receive his. Yesterday, Jeffrey's ornaments did not go on the family Christmas tree. (read... a few tears were shed) Instead, they were set aside and will be delivered to him and Alison on Thanksgiving Day.
It is bittersweet to pass on these precious family memories. Thankfully Curt and Jeffrey married women who will appreciate and care for these ornaments. Andrew...no pressure, but you had better do the same (not soon, though, please!)
Would I start this tradition again if I had known how difficult it is to pass on the memories...YES! I just wish someone had warned me about how a few pieces of my heart would break when I parted with the ornament memories.
If you have this tradition, or are contemplating it...consider yourself warned... and then do it anyway!
1 comment:
Yeah, we did something similar. John felt one year, that we should sit down with our college-age kids, and all FOUR of us sort out the kids' ornaments to pack away until they were married. (Since John & I have failing memories, and we didn't want to make any mistakes!) There was almost a reverence as we did this, and as we shared memories together. John's impressions were right on...That was the last Christmas we were all together (Keith was away on his mission for 2 years), with both kids SINGLE!
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