Christmas literally means the Mass of Christ. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, emphasizing love, peace, and goodwill towards all.
Now that we are in our 80s, the celebration of Christmas has mellowed and changed. It is less about Santa Claus or Kris Kringle. It is more about sending love and peace to everyone, even to those who are rude and grumpy. We remember the message of the play and story Scrooge.
- Decorating the house with a tree, fewer lights, candles, and garland. Over the years, the tree has become smaller and artificial.
- Baking cookies in smaller quantities but keeping the tradition of old favorites.
- Sending fewer Christmas cards via the postal service. Grateful for email cards and letters.
- Amazon! No trips to department stores.
- Quiet celebration at home or with friends instead of large groups, as shown in paintings by Norman Rockwell or Currier & Ives.
- Magic walnuts are still made, just fewer as the kids and grandchildren have become adults.
Our memories of Christmases past bring us joy. Each year we treasure the gifts of:
- New engagements
- Weddings of grandchildren
- Graduations
- Retirement for some, plans for early retirement by others
- Births of great-grandchildren
- The joy of watching our children be parents and grandparents
- The gift of having stimulating, informative, and interesting conversations.
- And, the gift that they are now looking out for us, making sure that we are safe and able to still take care of ourselves.
- We are very proud and deeply love our 6 adult children, 12 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. Who could ask or want any more than them for Christmas?!
To celebrate the Christ-mas is by treating everyone with love every day.
KAREN INGALLS, AUTHOR, BLOGGER & SURVIVOR 
We, too, focus on the love of family and making memories together. Merry Christmas, Karen! 🙂
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
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I hope your Christmas was as joyful, busy, and filled with love as mine was. Happy New Year!
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It is always wonderful when I’m surrounded by family. Happy New Year, Karen! 🙂
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Happy New Year to you also.
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Your 6 adult children, 12 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren are the best gift to you, Karen! You cared for them and now they take care of you! How wonderful! Merry Christmas to you and your family! ❤
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Thank you for your kind and joyful words, Miriam. Family is everything!
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You’re welcome, Karen!
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I love that you have family around you to keep tabs on you and to surround you with love, Karen. Our Christmases have changed too, and grown more intimate over the last few years, but they are blessed all the same. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and the joy of celebrating the Savior’s birth. ❤️
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Our family is with us in spirit since they are scattered around the U.S. However, they keep tabs on us with phone calls, FaceTime, and emails. We are blessed. Merry Christmas to you.
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Oh, Karen, I couldn’t agree more. My daughter and grandsons visited and the heavens brightened. There is no greater gift than family. May your Christmas be filled with blessings – especially young ones. ❤️🤶🏼❤️
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Merry Christmas to you also, Gwen.
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Lovely post, Karen.Merry Christmas to you and yours.
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Merry Christmas to you also, John.
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😊
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