Unbroken Christmas Traditions: A Family Legacy
As the festive season approaches, many of us begin to look back on cherished traditions that our families have upheld year after year. These customs may range from caroling sessions at home to special holiday meals and exchanges of gifts. In my household, certain customs remain unbroken year after year, making each Christmas even more special.
Singling Away the Days: Christmas Caroling with Enthusiasm
One of the most beloved traditions in our household begins in early or mid-December, when we gather for a caroling session. This can include over 35 guests, assuming all are available on the same day. While our renditions of these hymns may not be the best, we certainly do it with enthusiasm, ensuring the energy and joy are palpable. The debate over song selections runs rampant, especially for longer carols. It often ends with playful and sometimes absurd suggestions. For example, we might request that we only sing the last verse of 'We Three Kings'; this momentous afternoon is often capped off with a hearty afternoon tea.
Baking Gingerbread and Making Rumballs
In mid-December, my wife and I head to Mum's place to prepare the kitchen for baking gingerbread and rumballs. A cool kitchen is crucial when preparing large quantities of gingerbread. This process usually evolves into a delightful dinner with the entire family gathered around the table. The tradition of baking these treats is a true multigenerational effort, passed down through the years, creating memories and warmth in the process.
Fixed Menus and Old Jokes
The menu for our Christmas lunch is almost unchanging. Occasional new dishes are introduced, but some staples remain consistent. For example, my wife's famous potato salad has become an anticipated part of the menu, as has the "ice-cream pudding" that emerged shortly after we got married. These familiar dishes not only provide comfort and nostalgia but also serve as a reminder of the joy and warmth of family gatherings. The insertions of bad jokes from Christmas crackers only serve to further bond us as a family, creating a culture of shared laughter and tradition.
Continuation of European Customs
While most of our Christmas traditions are rooted in our American heritage, another unique aspect is our European holiday celebration. My wife's Christmas Eve celebration coincides with our annual expectation. It would be bizarre to forgo this tradition, and we go to great lengths to source black pudding for the meal. Black pudding is a favorite among both of us, and it adds a delicious and unique twist to our holiday celebration.
The Evening Presents
In the evening, we watch the Queen's Christmas message, a delightful tradition that has become synonymous with our family celebrations. After the message, we exchange gifts, where the magic and excitement of the moment come to life. The anticipation builds as we gather the presents from under the tree, ready to share the joy and wonder of the occasion.
Family Gatherings and Laughter
The following day, we host a large extended family gathering. This day is filled with its own set of traditions, such as Mum's cousin who gives me a big, heartfelt hug, while I attempt to run away. The usual suspects try to outdo each other in eating as much ice cream as possible, with puns that make it seem like a challenge. These silly moments and playful interactions strengthen the bonds within the family and remind us of the simple joys of spending time together during the holiday season.
Each of these traditions, from caroling to baking to gift-giving, contribute to the tapestry of our holiday experience. They are more than just recipes or gift ideas; they are cherished memories, rich in family history and love. In a world that can often feel unmoored and uncertain, these traditions provide a sense of continuity and belonging, ensuring that our Christmas spirit remains unbroken.