Ah, Christmas Eve, the most magical night of the year. As a kid, this was the climax of Christmas! We'd get all dressed up, go to midnight mass to then come home and find presents under the tree. Clearly, Santa would always drop by while we were out. We'd then proceed to opening gifts and wrap up the evening with a good old réveillon (a French-Canadian tradition). I wouldn't have it any other way! Sure, it might seem like we are opening gifts on the 24th but, technically, it's the 25th after midnight mass. In my opinion, this is the best format as everybody is dressed up and looks their best. Then, we can all sleep in on Christmas morning instead of getting up at the crack of dawn to open gifts in a sleepy state. We'd have a great lazy morning followed by brunch while everyone gets to enjoy their gifts. We'd then get dressed up and head to a family Christmas dinner with relatives. I liked that we always had our own little intimate Christmas as a family unit before celebrating with extended family. This tradition has changed over the years as we've grown up, but I still think fondly of my childhood Christmases.
To me, Christmas is about family. Sure the gifts, decorations and other festive touches help set the scene, but family is at the heart of the holidays. Yes, things are different this year, but that heart remains. I will make sure to focus on family in whichever way I can safely because the best gift I can give my loved ones is space this year. I give them space so that we can one day all gather again. This year has really put things into perspective and has allowed me to refocus on what's really important. As hard as it has been, I can forgo seeing my loved ones in person if it means I'm doing my part to avoid spreading the virus and keeping everybody else's loved ones safe as well. We are all in this together. Let's all be considerate and selfless this Holiday season.
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