Not being a particularly nostalgic person, it is but once a year, Christmas Eve, that the magical memories of my past, and time spent with my mom, two older brothers, and grandparents Grandpiere and Nani, come flooding back. It was then, that I remember the anticipation and excitement of what was to come. The buildup began as the mountain of presents got higher and higher, and how I was pulled aside and gently scolded for hinting to my brother Kevin as to what a present or two would be. As the day went on, the chairs and decorations downstairs were arranged in rows, for cousins, aunts and uncles to arrive, waiting for Santa’s visit. Of course we had to nap, and prepare for the one night a year we went to a restaurant (other than a pancake house) and ate “fancy food.” I so looked forward to the prime rib I would have. Before the meal, we celebrated with opłatek, a Polish tradition, which is thin wafers sandwiching honey. The head of the house would begin, and go around the table one at a time, expressing to each of us a special wish. We would then each take our turns, and repeat. After the meal, on the drive home, we could hear on the radio the “Santa sightings” all over the area. When home, we would prepare, and ultimately see, Santa as he arrived at our house. Uncle Frankie played the part well, and we all took our seats until Santa invited us to sit on his lap. It wasn’t until later that I may have realized that Santa’s special scent was a bit like Billy Bob Thornton in Bad Santa, but that didn’t change a thing. I remember my cousins Mike, Marc, and Mario, Auntie Charlene and Uncle Mike most, and how we typically beat up my cousins, and then covered them with pillows to stop them from crying. And 2nd cousins... I’m sure there were a few guys in there but my brothers and I only remember Collette, and her husky voice. Over the years, the crowds may have dwindled, and Santa was found out, but it was still a cool time of the year. It’s mostly upon reflection, that I appreciate all that my mom did to make it such a magical time, and the consistency of my grandparents who were always there, passing on traditions, including Gdańska wódka, a vodka with flakes of almost pure gold suspended in it. From us to you, happy whatever it is that you celebrate. Be especially kind and generous, and if there are special traditions, please pass them on to your kids. Let them know where they came from. And to my mom. How could I ever repay you? Times were always tough, but I’ve never met and never will meet someone as strong as you. Raising three wild boys on your own, always working several jobs to make the world go ‘round, and still having something left to give. You’re a true inspiration, and I love you. Kevin, Jamie, Jessie and Kylee, give her a hug for me.
Posted on: Mon, 22 Dec 2014 20:10:18 +0000
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