A Christmas Eve tradition
As new families are created ... traditions are adopted ... and created. Holiday traditions in particular, are often learned in childhood and passed on from generation to generation. Sometimes, new traditions are created and with any luck, they are meaningful enough to stand the test of time.
Growing up, there were few traditions in my family. Perhaps that was because we were never really a close knit group. I do not have memories of extended family gatherings ... or of particular 'family' traditions.
In fact, there are no Christmas traditions from my childhood to share. However, once I had children, a new tradition was born. From the time that my children were very young (and they are now 20, 22 and 26) ... we established a Christmas eve tradition that will continue as long as they live at home ... and when they have children of their own, I will help to ensure that this tradition is carried on.
Traditionally, my children have been allowed to open a single gift on Christmas eve and this gift is always a new pair of pajamas ... immediately donned, to be savored as the evening winds down and the excitement builds. These pajamas are carefully selected ... drawing inspiration from each child's interests and preferences.
Though my sons no longer reside at home and thus do not participate in this tradition any longer, I will eagerly assist them in reestablishing it when they have children. In the meanwhile, my daughter still ponders not only what delights will await her on Christmas morning ... but the mystery of what pajamas she will sleep in on Christmas eve.