Christmas: In Florida

By Gail Umperovitch

My Favorite Christmas Memory…

My favorite Christmas memory is not about a specific Christmas but Christmases when

my children were growing up. My son, Casey, has always been about “traditions” a

nd

establishing “traditions.”

At Christmas time after all the outdoor Christmas lights and the Christmas tree was

done, Casey would want me to make some homemade hot chocolate and we would go

outside and look through the front windows at the Christmas tree lit up in the house (even

in Florida there have been many Christmases chilly enough to warrant a warm cup of

cocoa).

As simple as that might sound, it still warms my heart to think of that simple little act. I

know it was all about our little family being together and working on a project that was

so beautiful when finished.

Memories are something that can never be taken from us. I lost my mom this past

September, 2010. She loved Christmas! For the last several years, my husband and I

would go over and decorate the outside of my parents home and my mother delighted in

having all the beautiful lights, manger scene, angels and reindeers outdoors to enjoy and

for others riding by to enjoy also. She spoiled all of the grandchildren with mounds of

Christmas presents every year and lots and wonderful food!

This Christmas will not be the same with my mom gone but I am so THANKFUL that

I have so many years of wonderful memories from Christmases when I was growing up

to many wonderful Christmases as an adult with my children experiencing Christmases

at “Mema’s.”

Our family is having a “special” family Christmas at my Mom and Dad’s. There will be

lots of presents under the tree but these presents will be extra special. They will be my

Mom’s “treasures” being given to her children and grandchildren for them to enjoy in

their homes.

Our heavenly Father has blessed us so much and we thank Him for our wonderful Mother

and all of the wonderful memories that were created with her.

Live each day in love, peace and harmony. Treasure what God has given you and do not

take advantage of a single day to let those you love know how much you love them.

God bless everyone at this very special time of the year and may we ALWAYS

remember the real celebration of the season.

Merry CHRISTmas… Gail