I remember going to Midnight Mass every Christmas Eve with my Grandma. We could walk to the Base chapel, so I would get all dressed up in my new Christmas outfit and off we would go. I remember walking in the snow and never getting cold becuse my Grandma's hand was so warm holding onto mine. We were not Catholic, and didn't have the slightest idea what was going on, so we just followed what everyone else did. After mass was over we would tredge back home through the snow with Mama Dent telling me the story of Jesus Birth. Mom and Dad would be waiting with a cup of hot chocolate and then rush me to bed.
Oh it was so hard to get to sleep. What would I find under the tree when I woke up? Would it be the big old rag doll that I fell in love with, or would it be the brand new, shiny bicycle? I would pull the covers up and soon those thoughts would become dreams.
I remember the love that was always present in that house, with Mom, Dad, Mama Dent and Papa Dent. And I will always remember the sense of wonder and magic that my Mom and Dad created for me the week before Christmas when the tree went up and a wonderful little village was spread out under the tree. There were little houses and a church and the sheet underneath was scrunched up to look like snow. There was the big round mirror that was an ice pond for these little figures that would skate around in circles. And to add to the magic my Dad always had the little electric train going around the tree and through a tunnel. I would sit under that tree for hours at a time and that village would come to life in my mind.
I would wake up early Christmas morning to the smell of Mama Dent's country ham and biscuit breakfast and Papa Dent making his traditional egg nog for all the neighbors who would stop by. I was told that the kind of egg nog he made was not good for little people.
To this day I still remember the Christmas magic and try to share that magic with my Family.
So when you are exhausted from all the shopping and wrapping, take time to sit and recall some wonderful memories from the heart. Memories like going to the woods to find the perfect Christmas tree, making snow angels, or drinking hot chocolate by the fire. This year, and every year from now on, I am counting every single one of my blessings and thanking God for every miracle He has performed in my life.
To all my Family and Friends,please know that, no matter what holiday you celebrate, you are all in my prayers. I wish all of you the peacefulness and the serenity that the Holiday's should bring, and ask that you always keep Christ in Christmas.
Love and Hugs,
Joan
