Christmas Memories Tree for Grandparents
Create a Sentimental Collection of Holiday Decorations
Nov 14, 2008
Grandparents carry with them the memories of Christmases past when their homes were filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of the holidays.
Remembering Christmas Preparations with Children
They recall how children share their genuine feelings of excited anticipation before the big day and want to help with preparations such as cookie making and packaging. They love the sparkle and glow of the Christmas tree that holds the decorations they made.
They may even conspire to find the special purchases that are hidden away. During that same period they talk happily about Santa Claus and wonder how he will appear when there is no fireplace in their home.
As they become older, children may want to pretend for the sake of younger siblings that there really is a Santa Clause. Sometimes they’ll do that because they don’t want to let go of what they perceive to be their parents’ fantasy and fun.
Family Traditions Change
During the passing years as the children become adults, family traditions change. The first year that one of them is not at home until Christmas morning can be a strange and perhaps difficult time. The question of ‘where have the years gone?’ comes to mind for parents who may bravely pretend that everything is all right.
They know that the circumstance was expected. They are proud of their offsprings’ life choices and accomplishments but for the moment they wish that they could be childish again.
Grandchildren bring the renewed sense of a joyful celebration with their hugs and laughter and their pleasure at seeing the tree and eating the special treats. Often they love to listen to stories of their parents’ childhood Christmas antics.
Christmas Celebration Changes
Years later, when the grown-up family members live many miles away, they may not be home for Christmas if work schedules or winter storms intervene. Perhaps the decision was made to alternate Christmas Day visits between a couple’s two families that live miles apart.
With people frequently changing their places of employment and residence they seldom know their neighbours and Christmas may be filled with wonderful memories that bring smiles and tears.
Single seniors can find ways to lighten their heavy-of-heart feelings during the holidays. If in good health they can volunteer with community groups or attend a concert at their local school.
However, it’s in their homes that they struggle with the very real problems of loss and loneliness. They miss the enjoyable tasks that represent the holiday season -- baking special cookies, planning and preparing meals, gift wrapping. Many of them long for the times when their home was the center for holiday celebrations.
Holiday Decorations from The Past
An idea that could be therapeutic is to decorate the Christmas tree with those ornaments and items that are representative of loved ones. Display hand-made decorations or cards made by your children or grandchildren.
Little photographs of family members are also wonderful additions to the tree. As you hang the ornaments that have sentimental value for you, the memories and the associative feelings will flow. Let them.
Enjoy your tree and all that it represents. Tell your long-distance relatives about it and, if possible, send them a picture of your wonderful Christmas memories tree, or show it to them when they come to visit at another time.
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