When I was younger, nothing compared to the excitement of retrieving the mail and discovering the holiday catalogs from major retailers like Sears or Service Merchandise. I would eagerly flip through the pages, circling every item I wished to receive for Christmas—be it toys, clothes, or the latest gadgets from the ’80s. Those moments were a cherished part of my childhood.
Now, my own children experience a similar joy, albeit with modern-day staples like Target, Amazon, LEGO, and American Girl. They still revel in examining each page, searching for delightful surprises. I often find items circled with initials, indicating who wants what. However, this year, I noticed a change: my oldest son has completely abandoned the tradition of the Christmas catalogs, and I must admit, it stings a little.
As a teenager, he has outgrown the fantasy associated with the holidays, yet in my heart, he remains my little boy. Now, instead of circling gifts, he texts me links to the latest AirPods or requests cash to save for a new gaming system. While this method is practical and effortless, it lacks the warmth and excitement of the past. It just doesn’t feel like Christmas anymore.
Fortunately, our home still holds onto some of that holiday spirit. We have younger believers, and our elf visits every night, leaving behind little notes. Rex, named after his favorite “Toy Story” character, was my son’s elf. It seems like just yesterday that those magical Christmases were unfolding. Why does time fly by so quickly? Although he no longer believes in the elf, he participates for the sake of his younger siblings, and for that, I’m thankful. At least he’s not a Grinch trying to ruin the magic.
In his younger years, I would decorate the house right after Thanksgiving while he slept, creating the first bit of seasonal wonder. The joy on his face when he discovered the decorations was unforgettable. Now, he helps me trim the tree and even indulges my love for Hallmark movies in the background. I cherish these moments.
He no longer searches for Rex upon waking or talks about visiting Santa. However, the innocent spirit of his childhood lives on through our holiday traditions. My special tree, adorned with ornaments from family vacations, anniversaries, and handmade treasures from my children, brings me comfort during the cold December nights.
While it feels like the magic of the holidays has faded as my children grow, perhaps it simply needs to transform. It’s time to create new traditions and update our holiday memories. Last year, I introduced my two older boys to “Christmas Vacation,” and they loved it—especially Clark’s hilarious rant. They’ve already asked to watch it again this year, which warms my heart.
The Christmas catalogs for this year are already on the table, dog-eared and marked, ready for Santa’s attention. My oldest son still enjoys building LEGO sets with his dad, and I might just toss the catalog onto his bed, along with a fresh Sharpie, and a note from Rex reminding him that Santa is keeping an eye out for ideas. Who knows? There might still be a little bit of magic left hiding among those earbuds and smartphones.
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In conclusion, as children grow and outgrow certain holiday traditions, it can feel as though the magic is lost. However, by adapting and creating new memories, we can keep the spirit alive in our homes.
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