Christmas morning. There couldn’t be more perfect weather for a Christmas Day in San Francisco, or anywhere in the world. We never have snow, so native San Franciscans don’t long for that to happen. But the chill and crisp air this morning does make me reminisce about past Christmases.
Our dinner in Millbrae was another gathering of our expanding and shrinking family. While we have seen the passing of my Mom and Pop and Uncle Andrew, we have Kim and Jada, Emily and her family, and of course Wendy. My cousins are grown and have their own lives and opinions.
Yet, the holidays bring a feeling of deep nostalgia. I recall the days growing up on Campbell Avenue with the shenanigans my brothers and I used to get into, Christmas morning brightening up before the break of dawn, the massive clean-up afterwards, and being on good behavior for as long as we could maintain it. I remember my Mom’s smile seeing us so happy playing under the tree, and Pop taking too long to take the perfect photo.
I am grateful for many things right now, but I will never forget the way my parents never seemed to let us down during the 36 Christmases we’ve shared. Even after my Grandpa passed away, or while we were still grieving Pop leaving us during the Christmas of 2006, we always found a way to make the children happy. I may occasionally remember a present or two from years past, but the gift of happiness and family memories at the end of the year will last forever.
I wish you a very merry Christmas and best wishes for 2010.
Eric