This year I downloaded a lot of Christmas music on itunes. The majority of the songs that I chose were old ones, Johnny Mathis, Nat King Cole, Perry Como, Bing Crosby and Elvis. There is just something about those songs that bring back not just memories, but feelings of Christmases when I was growing up. My mom was always really into Christmas, and it was such a special time. These memories involve the anticipation of Christmas, and things that we did together, and the decorations and the smells that surrounded the house (pine needles, mulled cider).
For many years my whole family spent Christmas Eve in New York City to see the Radio City Show, have lunch, and see the tree. Later my parents began having a Christmas Eve open house where they invited friends to stop by on their way to or from seeing their families. We would end up with 200 people coming over throughout the day, many made that party their primary Christmas Eve plan!
Christmas as always a big deal for us, because my mom always made sure that it was. My idea of Christmas is made up of the wonderful traditions, memories and events that my mom created. I hope my boys have the same feelings about Christmas as they grow up. Thanks mom!
Having my sister here made Christmas extra special! We had a nice Christmas Eve dinner out, and everyone behaved very well (including Tom!). Then we went to mass. The processional hymn was "Oh Come All ye Faithful" sung by the congregation without a choir. Tricia said she felt as if she were in a movie. I did too.
We finally had the chimney sweep over and Tom has been building great fires ever since.
The Fireman Sam trucks were a good call Santa! If Santa finds out what generous Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and child minder and friends we have, he may skip our house next year!
The boys helped us all open our presents!
The stockings were hung by the staircase with care. (I didn't want to disturb the decorations or the fire!)
South Dublin Christmas tradition: jumping off the 40 foot.
We participated as spectators.
It was a beautiful Christmas morning and it was great to take a walk by the sea.
And of course I had to use my Christmas dishes!
I am grateful for such a nice Christmas. We missed being with all of our family. It was nice to skype the bros on Christmas Eve at Jimmy's, and Aunt Jane & JP on Christmas. We also spoke with Joan, Ted , Kem & the kids on Christmas. I would have loved to have seen my nephew Patrick open his presents too.
It seems like you had a beautiful day! Happy new year!
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