Christmas Day: Love, Laughter, and Cherished Moments
Christmas is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a feeling, a season of warmth, love, and cherished memories. Every year, it brings with it a chance to pause and soak in the beauty of life with family and friends. This Christmas was no different for me, and I can’t wait to share the details with you—it felt like a beautiful letter written in moments.
A Morning Wrapped in Family Traditions
The day began with a special visit to my sister and nephew’s home. My mom joined my son and me, making the morning even more meaningful. We gathered, laughed, and indulged in one of our favorite traditions: watching movies together. It’s incredible how something as simple as sharing a couch and a good film can bond us even closer.
This part of the day took me back to my Afro-Colombian roots and our family’s love for Nochebuena. Growing up, Christmas Eve was filled with music, dancing, and late-night feasting. While our Christmas morning this year was more laid-back, it reminded me of the lively spirit of those celebrations.
An Afternoon of Gingerbread and Glee
When we got home, we decided to switch things up a bit. My son, my mom, and I rewatched Season 1 of Squid Game. I know—not your typical Christmas movie choice! But that’s the beauty of making traditions your own, right? Sharing laughter (and a bit of suspense) made it uniquely ours.
Of course, no holiday is complete without a creative activity, so we broke out the gingerbread men. My mom’s artistic flair took center stage as she decorated each cookie with precision and personality. Except for one, which she declared had a “skiing accident” when the icing didn’t cooperate. We laughed so hard—it was one of those moments that will live on in family lore.
By the way, did you know that the tradition of gingerbread men dates back to the 16th century? Queen Elizabeth I apparently served them as edible likenesses of her guests. Isn’t it amazing how something so historic can still bring joy today?
The Flavors of Christmas Dinner
The heart of the holiday for me is always the food. This year, I went all out with a roasted pork dish surrounded by perfectly seasoned veggies. The oven worked its magic, filling the house with irresistible aromas. For dessert, I baked a cheesecake that was almost too pretty to eat (but trust me, we managed!).
What made the meal extra special were the cocktails. I used spirits from 1861 Distillery in Thomasville, Georgia, to craft festive drinks that perfectly complemented the feast. It felt like a little toast to all the love and effort that goes into making the holidays special.
A Gift That Touched My Heart
This year, my son gave me a gift that left me speechless: a beautiful Kate Spade necklace with ice cream cone and strawberry pendants. It’s not just a necklace; it’s a reflection of how well he knows me. Kate Spade has always been one of my favorite designers, and this thoughtful gesture reminded me how much love and attention went into picking it out.
A Cozy Evening of Candles and Cocoa
As the evening unfolded, we turned to the ultimate comfort drink: hot chocolate. Made the old-fashioned way with Hershey’s cocoa and topped with Jet-Puffed marshmallows, it was like sipping happiness in a mug.
To set the mood, I lit my favorite candles from Broom Girl Goods. Their soft glow transformed our living room into a cozy sanctuary. Sitting there with my mom and son, reflecting on the day’s joys, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Christmas is truly about these quiet, meaningful moments.
Christmas Across Cultures
One of the things I love most about Christmas is how it’s celebrated around the world. In Colombia, where part of my roots lie, the holiday season kicks off with Día de las Velitas (Day of the Little Candles) on December 7th. Families light candles and lanterns, filling the streets with a warm, magical glow. In African American culture, many families also embrace Kwanzaa, celebrating heritage and unity.
These traditions remind me that while the details may differ, the heart of Christmas is universal: love, togetherness, and gratitude.
A Christmas to Cherish Forever
As I tucked myself into bed that night, I couldn’t help but smile. This Christmas felt like a perfectly wrapped gift—a day filled with laughter, delicious food, heartfelt moments, and the simple joy of being surrounded by those I love.
Christmas has a way of grounding us, doesn’t it? It reminds us of what truly matters: the people who make our lives brighter, the traditions that connect us, and the memories that become our greatest treasures. I hope your Christmas was just as magical as mine.
Let’s Keep the Spirit Alive
So, how did you spend your Christmas? Whether it was a big celebration or a quiet day by the fire, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s keep the spirit of Christmas alive in our hearts, one story at a time. Until next time, stay cozy, stay joyful, and keep celebrating the beautiful moments in life.
