You know the drill. It’s October, Halloween hasn’t even happened and it’s already starting to creep into your life. It is lurking in the corners, on a side of a four-way display and it building up high on shelves. Christmas has already arrived!
Or, did it ever really leave in the first place?
I will never understand the obsession over tradition. The house will be lit, the cookies will be fresh, the tree will be green, and everyone’s bellies will be full with some recipe great grandma made.
Now some people reading this are thinking that this is exactly what Christmas is supposed to look like and be like.
When I fostered children I quickly realized a need for new traditions because the old ones came with bad memories. Our last four Christmases, we’ve celebrated 4th of July Christmas. We break out the grill (impressive in South Dakota weather), put on the burgers, veggies, and brats.
We resist the urge to follow old customs and this year will be a black Christmas! A black Christmas tree to be exact.
Some people will find my addition to our untraditional Christmas slightly offensive. I for one think its fun, beautiful and a great way to add to new memories.
How do you feel about going black? Are you a traditionalist? Or, are you creating your own traditions for your family?
Instead of someones else ideas for Christmas, I dare you to do what you want, to be what you want and to even celebrate the way you want.
Sorry, Grandma, the fruitcake is long gone.
—
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash