As you grow older, I think some of the luster of Christmas can be worn. You realize there is no Santa. You don't get toys anymore. Your Transformers are replaced with boxers and socks. Our family doesn't allow those things to remove any luster off of our Christmas.
After Mom's great Christmas Eve dinner, we always exchange family gifts. This is the chance for Sissy and me to give presents to Mom and Dad, and also to exchange gifts with each other. I like this time, because as a kid Christmas was all about us. We got all the goods. So this is the time, in our house, for the parents to be spoiled. Granted, I still have yet to be able to spoil my parents the way I want, but for the time being I try to give them things they need or like. Mom and Dad are notorious for not letting us know what they want for Christmas. Yes, the holidays aren't all about presents, but when your parents have taken care of you for years, it is nice to give them things to show your thanks.
I typically use this time to also give my sister something fun. In the past, I've been her supplier of electrical goods. This year, she wanted a jewelry box. It was interesting trying to shop for one of those, and even more interesting trying to make room for it in my bags. But apparently it all worked out, and she was happy with it. Thank you, Pottery Barn.
Christmas day is always still fun at our house. Yes, we know there is no Santa, but there is something to be said for waking up and seeing presents on the couch. Yes, that is how we still do it in my family, and I love it. I suppose it is a piece of my childhood which I still hang on to. Sissy and I usually wake up, make sure the parents are up and then we go into the living room for presents. It will be interesting when that changes though, and it is me receive the "parent gifts" on the Eve and my kids on the Day. Something to look forward to, I think.
So all in all, I made out like a bandit. Nice clothes, some good music and yes, even a toy or two. My R2-D2 coffee mug has already seen some action in the office. Quite the topic of conversation while I'm making tea. I did receive a nice North Face fleece from the little woman. I love that thing. So damn warm. And Sissy gave me a game which is gonna be so much fun when I'm sitting around the house and drinking with friends. We even played a couple of spirited games of Catchphrase with the parents. Dad and I kicked butt.
No, it's not all about the presents, but it is nice to be able to exchange things with the family.
We now return you to your regular scheduled Lowe Down