I love to give presents to the kids, but I have to say that I don’t think they’re at their best or most adorable in raw displays of greedy ripping and avid eagerness to get stuff. At our house we follow my mother’s tradition of opening presents slowly and appreciatively. A lot of care goes into the wrapping (it’s part of the present), and we admire and appreciate that first.
The lights, the music, the food, the rituals and traditions, the shiny things, the exchange of greetings with friends and relations, and the warm spirit of family togetherness are all important parts of Christmas to me.
And I used to love the snow and ice too, the red noses and frosty breath and the delicious feel of coming out of the bitter cold into a warm house filled with the smell of baking.