Tis the Season

So, another year has come and gone since last Christmas.  Much has changed since then, yet much has stayed the same.  This year, yet again, Dad had to fly on Christmas so we celebrated early -- our Christmas Day was December 23rd, 2010.  I seem to have gotten some flak for having Christmas "early."

I don't think people really understand what the idea of this holiday is all about.  As I told a friend of mine who apologized when he found out my dad wouldn't be home for actual Christmas Day, "Holidays are what you make of them, not what date the rest of the world says they are." 
It doesn't matter that we celebrate a holiday on a different day than most people -- especially a holiday focused on family, love, giving and happiness. 

Christmas isn't about getting gifts, or putting up a Christmas tree.  It's about being with family -- at least it is in my family.  It's about getting together and loving one another and spending quality time together. 

Is Christmas the birth of Christ? To many Christians, yes.  Is Christmas the birth of Christ to us? Somewhat.

There are many more layers to Christmas than just that in our family.  To us, it is a time to give thanks for the wonderful things we have in our lives: friends, family and joy -- things far too many people do without.  To us, it's a lot like a second Thanksgiving -- giving thanks for the things we have.  Except there are generally a few presents under the tree, to the children's excitement!  We gather around the dinner table with great friends and great food and thank the all-mighty being upstairs -- whoever he, she or they may be -- for all that we've been blessed with. 

As for Santa Claus? Well, I'll believe until the day I die that he exists.  Santa is part of the magic that is Christmas.  I will forever believe that he is a "right jolly old elf." 

So, wherever you may be -- Naples, Florida or Caracas, Venezuela (where Dad is right now) -- enjoy the Christmas holiday with your family and friends.