Our Family Christmas Traditions: A Warm Winter Memories
The annual Christmas walk! Once the festive lunch and its treats are put away, my family gathers around the warm return of the home. The lights are turned on, the kettle brews, and Christmas spirit reignites.
Traveling to a New Land
My family came to Australia in 1958, seeking warmer weather after my father’s spinal injury during a flight across Africa. Despite the sandstorm and harsh conditions, his ingenuity and determination ensured their safe landing, though not without serious injury. Moreover, the extravagant Christmas traditions followed us to Australia, blending English and Scottish customs to create a unique family legacy.
English Christmas Traditions
Back in England, my father’s family celebrated Christmas with all the trimmings: traditional English turkey, ham, vegetables, and a plum pudding with rum butter. On Christmas Eve, midnight mass was a must, adding another layer of religious and cultural significance to the holiday. My mother, born in Lincoln, shared her Scottish heritage, introducing my father to the Scottish New Year celebrations, which he found delightful.
Australian Notions
Adapting to life in Australia, my family maintained a similar Christmas tradition but with a local twist. For two straight weeks, we enjoyed a traditional English Christmas dinner and New Year’s Day celebration. My mother’s contributions included a delightful trifle for dessert, ensuring all palates were satisfied. Midnight carol service on Christmas Eve was a cherished family activity, providing additional warmth and unity during the cold nights.
Dad’s Ingenious Gift Games
A family Christmas stand-out was Dad’s elaborate gift-giving routine. Using small, frequently wrapped presents with long tangled strings, he created a game of patience and deduction for everyone. I still remember the night we unwrapped dozens of presents, reeling with laughter and enduring the lengthy process. This tradition, known as the ‘rubber chicken disaster’ due to a misunderstanding about a ham dinner, remains a cherished family story.
Generational Influence
These rich Christmas traditions not only brought my family together but also influenced subsequent generations. I continued these practices to my own family, adapting them where necessary. The experience of making gingerbread, a labor of love, and creating a traditional Christmas cake, which became a favorite among older folk, added to the holiday joy. Furthermore, each Christmas we shared our own version of the ‘rubber chicken story,’ ensuring Dad's misadventures were passed down through the years.
Legacies and Routines
By the time both my parents were gone, we had carried on these routines with our own children. Christmas carols, sharing laughter, and enjoying the festivities remained staples. Cleaning up after dinner and a walk on the beach bridged the gap from my childhood to the present, cementing the memories and traditions that truly make our holiday special.
These are the memories and traditions that my family cherishes every year. They are more than just festive gatherings; they are a testament to the enduring spirit of Christmas and the connections we share with our loved ones.