12/24/2018
“Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather and dance--each beautiful, unique, and gone too soon."
—Deborah Whipp
When I was a boy Christmas Eve was magic. After a long evening at my grandparents, my family would drive ten country miles to the Texas farm where I grew up. Along the way, Dad would talk with convincing detail about Santa and how we might have to "check and see" if he was still in the house when we got home. He went on and on about what the sleigh looked like and where it would be parked--things he knew from past experience. Then, he'd recount about the year (before we were born...of course) when he and Mama surprised Santa by arriving home earlier than expected. My favorite was how he described Santa leading his reindeer out to our barn, feeding them hay while he did his work in the house.
Dad's Santa routine continued long after my siblings and I ceased to believe. Every year it was a reminder of a time when we did believe. It was tradition. And now, it's a beautiful memory. One that grows more and more special every year removed. My Dad is in the winter of life now. He has run his race and, in all likelihood, is living his last Christmas. Certainly the last one he will be aware of. Memories and people are indeed "beautiful, unique, and gone too soon." This Holiday Season make new memories, remember the old, and cherish the people you love.
Justin Langebartels
Kyle Whiteley
Ethan Andrew Ehrstine
Steve Bradley
