My Favorite Holiday

In 2002, when she was six years old, my grandaughter drew this picture and wrote an essay titled "My Favorite Holiday". I tried to put the essay on the blog too, but it didn't scan well. Here is the essay:

"My favorite holiday is Christmas. We go to my grandma and grandpa's house. I get presents from my cousins. I give presents to my cousins. I play with my new toys. We play outside when we are done inside. I get presents from my mom and dad too. My grandma and Grandpa live in Raleigh. They are very very very nice!!"

It is easy to see the focus of her Christmas, isn't it? PRESENTS! I don't blame her, when I was a child it was the same for me. I am going to my son's house tomorrow, so instead of my grandchildren coming here this year, we are going to them.

I had this framed soon after she gave it to me, and it hangs on my kitchen wall all year long. The family shown in the picture includes she and her sister, her mom and dad, and me and Mr. kenju. The tree is festively decorated with ornaments and a star at the top. A simple setting - for a simple celebration of Christmas, and all that it entails. I hope all of you have a wonderful Christmas. Please don't forget the true meaning. It can get lost in the hustle and bustle of preparations. If you have lost someone close to you this year, reflect on all that they meant to you and bask in the warmth of their memories. Take some quiet time, reflect on all that you have and be thankful. It could be gone tomorrow. You have all brought me much cheer this year. I have learned from you, laughed with you, been sad with you and hopeful with you. This has been one of my best year's ever, so I hope you have a Happy New Year in 2006, and many, many more to come!