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By Lorie Ann Simpson
Another Christmas season is upon us. Time sure does seem to fly by. Remember, it didn’t pass so quickly when we were younger. It took Thanksgiving and Christmas forever to get here. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. Fantastic food and time to relax. But most importantly, time with family. As I get older, I realize that is what is important. When I was younger, it was rushing here and there between families. We tried to fit a visit in with everyone we could. Not really spending as much quality time as I would have liked. This year we broke away from tradition and had different foods, which was fun. Played games. We talked. And we laughed. And laughed some more.

My family, especially my parents, made this season so special. I tell my husband I get melancholy when walking down memory lane. If I had known how hard it would have been without my parents, I would have held onto them a little longer and a little tighter. This year will be the second holiday without my dad. The tenth without my mom. Even though I am a grown woman, I am still that little girl missing her parents. I have incredible memories, and those are what I will hold onto. And the new memories I am making are what will keep me going. God has blessed me with an amazing husband and sweet stepson.

So, this year, break out new traditions or keep the old ones. There is no right or wrong on how to celebrate. However, one piece of advice is to ask your mom, dad, or, if you’re lucky, grandmother how they made that stuffing, macaroni, and tomatoes. Ask what their special touch or secret ingredient is that made it so good. And really listen. Take it all in. Take notes if you have to. There will come a time when you will wish you did.

Tim and I hope you all had a memorable Thanksgiving, and we wish you many blessings this Christmas season.