Jeff and I packed up the household goods and set out for our first military duty station in the summer of 1988. El Paso, Texas, or bust! It was difficult leaving our family and friends. But this was to be our new adventure and we were up for the challenge. I never realized when we left Idaho, just how much about our lives would change.
Over the years, we created our very own holiday traditions, best suited to our nomadic ways. We didn't have a lot of extra money for traveling, so we stayed close to home for Thanksgiving and Christmas. These habits have shaped our current traditions and now are at the heart of how we celebrate the season.
Now, with our children grown and a grandchild in our midst, we gladly leave behind some of our old ways to make room for new traditions. One of my favorite new traditions is inviting grandson, Gavin, over to the 'castle house' so he can help decorate the tree. We make hot chocolate, start a fire in the hearth, play selections from John Denver and the Muppets Christmas songs and adorn the tree with our memorable collection of ornaments.
On Christmas Eve we will join Tarajean, Paul and Gavin over at Ann and Joe's for a lovely dinner. On Christmas morning, Jeff and I will enjoy coffee and raise our cups in a toast to our loved ones and those who cannot be with us on this blessed day. Then we'll head over to the Warren family home to exchange gifts, partake in a tasty brunch, and be a part of their family Christmas tradition.
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