Christmas traditions Families find myriad ways to celebrate the season By Lockie Hunter WNC Parent contributor
F
amily holiday traditions are often as varied as families themselves. WNC’s families are no different. “We have a framework of tradition ... but not hard and fast traditions,” says Diana McCall, of Black Mountain. “Our tree is either live or purchased to benefit a local nonprofit. There is always a fire in the fireplace. And as many years as I can wrangle them, a walk with the whole or part of the family and whomever is visiting.” Many families have different cultural backgrounds, contributing to an abundance of joyful traditions that honors the old while making room for the new. Asheville mom Jennifer Rennicks celebrates an Irish-American heritage. “Everyone participates in bringing evergreens into the house at the coldest, darkest time of the year — whether it’s a fresh cut or living tree, boughs of holly or small branches from a fir in the yard. Less natural but just as beloved by our children are Christmas crackers, a Victorian-era party favor shaped like a large Tootsie Roll that ‘cracks’ loudly when pulled part to reveal a toy, a joke and a paper crown.”
Absent Santa Claus
Santa presents a problem for Lis Anna, local artist and mom. “When my daughter was born, I promised her that I would not lie to her,” she says. “In order to be lifetime friends, full of love and respect, we must be honest at every corner, even the sharp ones.” So, she decided to celebrate Christmas without Santa. “We leave presents
Emma, left, and Ciara Rennicks celebrate the holidays by opening Christmas crackers, which contain small toys, jokes or paper crowns. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT
W N C PA R E N T. C O M
5