Childhood Christmases
I remember vividly our childhood Christmases. They were magical. My dad was a farmer and during the depression we didn’t have very much. My Dad grew up in a log cabin in the Big Thicket. The log cabin was made by my grandfather. Daddy usually got a cap pistol for Christmas. So he was determined that we 4 girls would have the best Christmas. We had no electricity but we had a huge cedar tree with lots of light. Daddy had hooked up a dynamo so we had a glittery tree. Since we didn’t have much money we usually got about 2 or 3 dollars to buy gifts. However, back in those days you could get something pretty nice for 25 cents. So Mama usually got a pretty bowl or a handkerchief, and my Dad got socks or a hankie.
We agonized over the wrapping and everything had to look just right. We thought Christmas Eve would never come! We usually had hot chocolate and sang carols waiting for Santa. Daddy wanted us to believe in Santa for a long, long time, So he rigged up a wire from the tree and put the end of it in a hole by the fireplace. He backed his chair up to it and as we were singing carols—he pulled the wire that had a bell on it. We thought we had caught Santa in the act—but didn’t.
My two older sisters wrote a short skit or play that we performed on Xmas eve. Of course, they always had the lead parts!
We always knew that during the month of Nov. the old garage was off-limits. We didn’t know then—but Daddy was making wonderful doll furniture. I wish we had that furniture now.
I miss those Christmases that can never be brought back. We each have to make our own traditions though. I have given my daughter, Laurie, the same pearl tie for over 40 years. We call them “fool” presents. I gave my sister,Norma, the same ugly crocheted hat for over 40 years and then it got lost. Those were the good old days.
Mama and Daddy are gone and 2 of my sisters are gone , but in spite of everything we are still enjoying Christmas. After all it is Christs’ birthday. December 25th was my Dad’s birthday so he usually didn’t get birthday presents, but he was happy to have all his family around him.
Have you started a tradition in your family? Just do it!
