What we really remember...

As I sit here wrapping presents and thinking "Is this all?" I am thankful for my husband.  He constantly reminds me of the true meaning of Christmas while I remind him what it was like to be a child.  Our combinations of personalities have brought us to a great place this year. 

A couple of years ago when I placed the presents under the tree the night before it was insane.  We had gone way overboard and spent way too much money.  If I remember correctly they were still at the age that it took forever and some coaxing to keep opening.  Last year we managed to downsize quite a bit, but we still could've done less and enjoyed ourselves.  This year, I think we got it right!  Each child will get one large special gift, something they have been wanting and will really truly appreciate, not just more junk to be thrown into the toy closet.  Also they will get a shirt, a cocoa mug and then of course their stockings with the basics:  toothbrush, chocolate, gum, orange and a little toy.  Of course they will have their gifts from Grampy Baboo, Angin and Yaya, James' siblings and their one simple gift that Santa brings.

While it doesn't seem like much to some, I know they are perfect for them.  So while I sit here and reminisce awhile I find myself falling into the emotional Sommer thinking of my Mom.  I know that she and Dad always provided for us the best they could and searched out the things we would really appreciate and enjoy.  Tears fall as I hope she knows that we always enjoyed Christmas even if it was little or "second hand."  My memories aren't of the toys though, but of the days surrounding--Christmas Eve at grams enjoying the bowl of nuts, trying to find the perfect filled candy and not get the gross ones, fudge and "round cheese" the warmth of the house and the spots we sat in while Aunt Cathy played "Santa" and then Gram opening up all of hers last.  On Christmas I remember waiting at the top of the stairs until Dad had his coffee ready, opening the stockings first, the surprise of what Dad's work gave us that year, waiting for Gram to come over so we could show her our new things and then relaxing at home the rest of the day together. 

I can't really remember any gifts off hand besides the year we all got Alvin and the Chipmunks from Dads work (I got Simon LOL), but what I remember is mom watching and smiling and twiddling her hair and enjoying us-her family.  I have to believe that she knew how happy we were and how much we enjoyed Christmas because of her.  She would have loved to be home last week when all of her grandkids were together.  I can hear her laugh and see her smile while she sits and watches them.  I hope that my kids will remember that peacefulness about me, just enjoying them-enjoying themselves.