Well its that time of year when I thought about what memories I wanted to make with my children.  What are those things you remember most about the Christmas's past?  For me there is alot~here are some of the things on the top of the head tonight! 

~I remember spending time with my family, mostly my sisters and my mom and grandma, we baked, we cooked, we laughed, we heard stories, it was just one special holiday for me, bitter sweet at times to think now since my grandmother is no longer with us!  ~

~Another thing, silly one, is I always remember coming down the stairs Christmas morning to the big middle step where we would wait for the morning christmas picture (my sisters and I in our pjs, hair all messy and sleep still in our eyes) We could go no further than that step, it was still almost downstairs but your view was blocked as it was a spiral staircase.  I can feel the excitement as ai tell it, kind of funny.  I was always amazed at my parents ability to give us so much even as kids, not that the number was a big thing mind you it was the idea of the " lots " I guess.  I always got one large stuffed animal, unwrapped under the tree and then a few presents besides.  I am still a stuffed animal girl.  LOL!  ~

~I also remember the nativity set we had as children, we always got it out and set it up as a family, read the bible story and got to put out the story as it unfolded.  My dad always did the reading. ~

~Then of course their was the rush to get it all cleaned up for company coming to dinner.  We always had the dinner.  My mom still has it!  She was always helped by my grandma when she was here, and now we all help (but she does the major work)  Anyway, the day would unfold by grandparents coming, aunts and uncles, cousins, and actually anyone who didn't have a place to go my mom would invite.  I honestly can say you never know who will turn up at our Holidays.  LOL- even your labor and delievery nurse, another story in itself but she was invited to an Easter dinner about two weeks after I delivered after showing up at our church service for the first time!  ~

And lastly the memory that brought this topic to mind, a Big Wheel.  Have you had one as a child?  I did and Oh how I loved that ole thing!  I went today and bought one for my little guy to give him on his birthday in March but its on sale now!  My older two never cared for one, but this guy is all about a moving outdoor toy!  Just like his mother!  :)  

Think of your memories an jot them down and send to me!  I love reliving the past ~!

~Jude~ (a name only my Papa used to call me)