Christmas when I was a little girl meant bright sunny days and a trip to the movies.  We enjoyed a dutch Christmas celebration with lots of dutch relatives on Christmas Eve.  We would go to church services in the morning, come back for some breakfast  with my grandma and grandpa and then open presents around the tree with my family.  Aftwards, we would gorge on Christmas supper then go to the cineplex for a good, fun family movie.

We had a fireplace and never lit it.  The ocean was always a short drive away.  And... it never snowed on Christmas.

My children are growing up with swirling snowflakes and snowpants on Christmas.  We go to church services Christmas eve.  After a brief sleep in time on Christmas morning, we travel to the grandparents ranch and open presents.  After Christmas supper, we play a game together or watch a video.  We love to curl up next to the stove (propane heat with a window to see the fire) at their grandma and grandpa's. 

We don't have a fireplace at our house but if we did we would use it.  The ranch is always a short drive away.  And... we would be amazed if it didn't snow on Christmas.

I look back at my childhood Christmas with a smile on my face.  And as I think about the Christmasses to come with my children, I literally beam with excitement.  Whether it is sand or snow, ranch or beach, Christmas is my favorite time of year.

I thank God for the gift of Jesus and the gift of family.

We will travel two states away to a sandier place this Christmas.  But, no matter where we are the true spirit of Christmas love with be with us.