Gratitude for My Most Memorable Christmas Moments and Traditions Throughout the Years

Most families in New Jersey have a Christmas tradition that they hold onto every year. For many, it’s what Christmas is all about. When one reflects, they think about the fond memories that define Christmas for them. It’s not the gifts or the food or the decorations. It’s the tradition or routine that would conjure up happy thoughts of Christmases years ago. Christmas Morning When I think of Christmas, I think of my kids waking up and waiting at the top of the steps for me to turn on the video camera. After the signal, they raced halfway down the steps and peeked through the spindles of the railing where they could see the Christmas tree. They would scream with excitement and then sprint the rest of the way to the piles of gifts under the tree. Christmas Eve There’s another moment that I look forward to every year, and it happens the night before. My wife, Kathleen, and I have been hosting Christmas Eve since long before we were married. Our house is filled with family and friends and Kathleen prepared all of the food which includes her unbelievable fish soup. We go to mass, head back home, and with the arrival of our first guests, the party begins. “Santa” arrives to the tune of “Here Comes Santa Claus,” and brings a gift for each of the kids. Under the tree are presents for everyone, but they can’t choose a gift until they pick a Christmas song. The song plays and they have to sing the first verse or two (depending on how much they’ve had to drink) while everyone sings along. Moment of Peace However, I think my favorite time of the evening is just before everyone arrives. This is the most peaceful and magical time for me. The Christmas tree and all of the Christmas decorations are lit providing the perfect lighting with Christmas music playing. It’s a very calming feeling, and I take a few moments to reflect on the past, look ahead to the future, and think about how lucky I am. There is rarely a time during the rest of the year that equals the gratitude I feel at that moment. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! [select-listicle listicle_id="856451" syndication_name="4-great-christmas-dinner-options-for-the-whole-family" description="yes"]