Delano Herald Journal

Serving the communities of Delano, Loretto, Montrose, MN, and the surrounding area

Jenni Sebora Column – 01/11/16



Wow! This holiday season came in like a lion and went out like a lion, but it was wonderful!

It really is about traditions. It is tradition in our family to have a small, family get-together the weekend before Christmas with my twin and his family, my brother-in-law and his grown daughter and husband, and my family.

As with all families and traditions, they change a little, but the heart of the tradition remains the same, and that is what should be celebrated.

This tradition was started by my mother and father years ago. Back then, it involved my twin and me when we were in high school, my sister, her husband, and their daughter. Over time, family units have changed.

We exchange gifts, of course eat, and all those wonderful holiday doings.

This year, we added a new sentimental tradition. We did toasts (with cider) – children included – to all of those loved ones who have passed away, and we shared memories. We shed a few tears, but also many laughs. It is very healing to do this.

To add to the sentiment, each person shared a favorite Christmas memory. This was really fun and really added to our holiday spirit.

These memories shared included my twin and I ice fishing with my dad Christmas Eve morning and Christmas Day when we were youngsters, to get out of our mother’s hair so she could prep for the holiday.

My mom liked it like this. She knew exactly what she needed to do and went full force ahead.

We always had a very full house Christmas Day; with so much food and goodies we could have fed, as they say “an army” – I guess the Schultz army.

My middle daughter shared her bewilderment when she and her siblings come down Christmas morning and see all the presents under the tree. Still, to this day, they all love this (who doesn’t?).

She also shared how she loves getting new pajamas each Christmas Eve to wear to bed for Christmas Day (a tradition our family started some years back, which also includes pajamas for my husband and I).

Being pulled on sleds by snowmobiles during the day Christmas Eve was also shared as a special memory by a couple of our teen family members.

One Christmas (I think last year), we did not have enough snow, so we used the four-wheeler instead and the big sled. It worked. There were a few sore bottoms, but a good memory nonetheless.

Then, we played some family games. We did the good, boys against girls, in 20 Questions, a team trivia game. We ended in a tied truce; of course, but not before there was debate and many chuckles.

Lastly, Family Feud took over (not a real feud, but the game), and this was a blast. One of our younger kids was the announcer, and he had fun with this. It is fun to be in charge of people older than you.

We actually ended the evening with pie and coffee or hot cocoa. This night will go down in the books for a great Christmas memory.

Now we’re off to 2016! I can’t believe it. It’s time to start the resolutions; maybe it will be more family game nights; that would be good.








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