The most precious Christmas gifts I’ve received have not been objects, but memories. My father had seven brothers. One died young, but the others each joined a different branch of the service in WWII (to make sure at least one returned to their mom). To celebrate ALL making it back afterwards, they purchased homes near one another in Denver. Each Christmas they’d take turns hosting all the ever-growing Allen brother families at their not-so-large homes. As the years went by, the families grew until we were wonderfully squished together with six uncles and six aunts, 30+ first cousins, boyfriends, girlfriends, family friends, etc…. The eldest, Uncle Lee, who was childless, would pass out to all the children gifts from his world travels, and each family shared a food specialty (great desserts!). We would sing hymns, trade silly “White Elephants,” play charades and bingo, make crafts, and sing hymns and carols. Now, we second, third, and fourth generations, a big group, continue this 80+ year old tradition at summer picnics. These gatherings have given me memories of hugs, laughter, and precious family times—a treasured gift and a wonderful way to honor our Christ’s birth. Merry Christmas to you all!
—Sandra Jordan
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