editor’snotes Molly Swift, Editor
December 2012
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A few weeks ago, my three year old and I were talking about Christmas. Now, bearing in mind this is a new concept to her, when I asked her what she wanted from Santa for Christmas I wasn’t really expecting much of an answer. She thought about this for a second and then said, “I’m asking Santa for some candy and a baby brother.” She’s been on the baby brother kick for some time now and I’m still trying to figure out who to thank for that gem. I had to tell her the candy was doable, but the baby brother wasn’t something Santa could bring. Apparently it was just something to throw out there – she’s now opted for a train set and a present wrapped in purple wrapping paper. That’s certainly closer to what Santa had in mind, I’m sure, but it did make me think about what I used to wish for on the long lead up to the Christmas holidays. As an adult, time seems to fly. But I recall as a young child the pinnacle of my year was Christmas. Not my birthday – which I loved celebrating – but mostly the day after when I would start looking forward to mince pies, decorating the Christmas tree and going to carol services. This was in August, and in the UK I would still have a few weeks before school started, but it didn’t matter – Christmas was coming. The excitement is something I still carry with me even now and it is something I’ve tried to pass on to my girls. The traditions I’ve established with my family are designed to reinforce that childhood anticipation. Decorating the house and the tree is something I ask for full involvement from; often it ends up being just me and maybe one other daughter hanging ornaments on the tree, but that doesn’t matter. I have seasonal music playing and I love the memories many of the ornaments bring – not to mention having my family around me. I’ve said it so many times before, but that is what the holidays mean to me. Spending time with my kids and husband, appreciating what I have and what I’ve had in my life. It’s special and very important to me. I’m not the best at buying gifts, but I’ve always reiterated the common phrase, “It’s the thought that counts.” So it shouldn’t have surprised me when the youngest asked for a baby brother. It’s been on her mind and I’m proud of that. It shows we are doing the right thing as parents and that her sisters are doing their sisterly duties right too! Otherwise, why would the three year old want to add another to the fold? Our home must be a pretty wonderful place to be and that makes me happy! My holiday wish for you is just that – regardless of in what way and what faith you are celebrating the season; I hope you enjoy a sense of peace, accomplishment, love and happiness. May your days be merry and bright! Take care.
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