It's a Family Tradition

December 03, 2010

When we moved our son, our only child, into his college dorm for the first time in August, it was the beginning of a new reality for our family. I thought about all the years of the "first day of school" photos taken in the morning before heading off to the bus stop –his smiling face, probably a new lunch box, backpack, crayons, and pencils. In later years, there were still the pictures, though somewhat lacking in their enthusiasm, smiling indulgently (grudgingly?) before driving himself to school. It was after all, a tradition.

So, we brought our camera for move-in day, and documented the newly decorated and organized dorm room and his smiling face as he anticipated his dad and I taking ourselves and that camera back home. Seriously though, that small ritual of first day of school photos had become a tradition for us. It got me thinking about other traditions we have in our family and how thankfully, they are still meaningful to all of us. 

For birthdays, whether there is to be a party or not, the table is decorated and usually there are streamers and balloons. Most important is the special "goblet" that is brought out only for birthdays. Years ago, it was adorned with jewels and really was impressive looking. Sadly, they were not dishwasher friendly. Now, it is simply a yellow acrylic goblet that the birthday person uses on their special day.

Oddly enough, traveling to Walt Disney World has become a tradition for us, having visited 19 times and counting! Most of our traditions are centered around the holidays. Thanksgiving is the traditional turkey, my mom’s cornbread dressing recipe, and watching the Macy’s parade. And, Mrs. Smith ALWAYS makes the pumpkin pies.

At Christmas, the tree is decorated with all of our cherished ornaments. The collection continues to grow, but one of my favorites is a pinecone draped in Mardi Gras beads and gluey blobs of glitter made with love by my son when he was in preschool. Then, there are the traditional Christmas pajamas, which we open on Christmas eve. We make a point to watch some of our favorite movies – It’s A Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34^th Street, or Elf. Cinnamon rolls for breakfast on Christmas morning. There are so many more, but you get the idea. What are some of your favorite traditions? MCPL has lots of books on the subject.

Leslie M.
Smithville Branch