Unconditional Mom

The holidays are almost here - I am so excited! Traditions have been carried on, for decades, that still excite me as much as they did when I was a young child. I often think back to those small things that have changed over the years, but keep in mind that there are constants that exist, that I hold on to so near and dear to my heart. I intend for these to carry on far beyond my own mere existance in this world through my daughter and other younger members in our family.

Traditions, in a world full of chaos and disarray, have a consistence that can never be replaced; they are imperative to keep us grounded and to remind us of what matters most. The world is full of change and anything that we can grasp on to, and cherish so deeply, deserves recognition…and respect.

Our family is tradition. We are extended - a very large, extended family. I have been so fortunate to be able to call them just that: my family. I won’t paint white picket fence dreams and candy coated perfection as what we represent.  What we have is much more real and true. We gather around multiple tables, at my Aunt Debbie’s house, and talk; laugh; enjoy each others company. There could be any numerous conversations taking place at once and somehow I think we are all so in tune to one another that we can follow each of them with precision.

Our communication is tradition. We appreciate one another and the unique values that each person has. Our principles are our foundation all based upon one man and his achievement in making each of who we are today; my Grandfather. I call him, “Pop”. I honestly believe he is the reason that we are each as close as we are.  His unconditional love and devotion to each of us, over the years, has been nothing short of wonderful. We each owe him more than we could possibly begin to explain to any random stranger.  

Last, but not least, our memories are tradition…and will continue to be every passing Thanksgiving.  We remember those whom we have lost over the years and count our blessings that we were fortunate enough to share our lives with them; even if only for a short time. We are grateful that we have those who are still with us and can share another laugh or another story with them once more. Precious moments, priceless moments.

Although we don’t need a holiday to remind us of what we are thankful for it is nice to have a special day to recognize them in a higher regard. It’s our day - something we share and most certainly value. Without those aforementioned traditions I am absolutely certain I would not be the person that I am today. If my family, communication and memories were non-existent I wouldn’t be nearly as grateful for what I’ve been given… I’m one lucky girl!

I will continue to impress those traditions onto my daughter and instill in her the importance of carrying them on.  At four years old she is already enjoying the family time and has been excitedly asking me, repeatedly, if it’s Thanksgiving yet. The most wonderful part of that is knowing that she will never outgrow that anticipation because at 36 years old I haven’t either.

TwitterMoms.com and Target want to know:

“What three favorite family Thanksgiving traditions have you passed or will pass on to your children?”

I can’t wait to read them!

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