Traditions....that is what my mother has left to me. Remembering all of the things we did together year after year will help keep her alive in my heart.

If I can share anything with you it is how much I cherish the yearly traditions my mother and I (and my family) had. When we were growing up Christmas morning was the same every year and that is one of my favorite traditions, you knew what was going to happen. My mother and father would get up early, go down stairs, light the tree, start the Christmas music (have there first cup of coffee which was torture) and come up stairs and get us ready. By ready I mean, we would line up in a single file from oldest to youngest (being the youngest was the worst) and walk down the steps to the living room. I sure my parents did it to establish some sort of order to the complete and total chaos of having four children, but for me it was fun. Then we would pass out one present at a time and open it up at the same time (we still do that today). That way everybody gets to see what the other person got and take the time to share the excitement with each other. Then each of us had a corner in the living room where we stacked up our presents and you knew whose stuff was whose. I could go on and on and tell you all of the traditions I remember but there so many. Personally, my favorite was going on a shopping trip with my mom every year before Christmas. We went so many places; New York, the Pocono's, Bethlehem. They were all so very special to me and the memories we created are deeply rooted with in my soul. Family is so important and the traditions we create is the one present that will last the longest. I love you and miss you more everyday Mom. May you have the best Christmas ever as you share this one with Jesus.