I was the tenth child in a family of fifteen children. I had eleven sisters and three brothers. We were a happy family, and all each other needed.
Not having much money, we waited until late Christmas Eve to get our tree; trees were either inexpensive, or they were being given away by then.
Christmas Eve, while the older half went out with our father to find a tree, we younger children, sent to bed, scurried up the stairs laughing and squealing excitedly. We did not go right to sleep, but had a slumber party, talking and giggling, trying to keep ourselves awake all night, knowing that wonderful things were happening downstairs. Eventually every one of us fell to sleep.
When morning came we rushed downstairs to find the most beautifully decorated house and tree! Nothing was more exciting than Christmas morning.
Usually our presents were practical items, such as new socks and underclothing. Being in need of those things, we thought they were wonderful gifts.
My oldest sister always made a special gift for each of us. She once gave me a large tin can covered with soft brown fur. Tucked inside was a brush and colorful barrettes. I still have that old fur can. Running my hand over the now worn fur I remember the love that Christmas is all about.
Christmas dinner was always the best part of Christmas for our family. Everyone dressed in their best clothes. My sisters twirled and danced through the house as they worked at arranging the festive table and preparing the holiday meal. Although most of the year we ate simply, our holiday meals were extravagant. My mother cut no corners. Food in abundance overflowed.
My mother never failed in thinking up the most wonderful ways of creating a table rich and elegant. I have always felt that even the wealthiest of people could not have enjoyed a richer holiday or a party more grand than ours.
Often we had guests. My father, being the people loving man he was, sometimes even brought home a stranger or two for dinner. Some of these people were quite talented and played music for us. Any extra people fit right into the busy on goings of our household.
Late in the evening we listened to Christmas records and took turns entertaining the group by dancing to the music.
One of my favorite memories is of us younger children sleeping on the floor around the tree. Looking up into the lit-up branches we talked of all the pleasures we enjoyed and soon, although we did not mean to, we fell fast asleep.
In all our celebrations we remembered the true meaning of Christmas; the savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, who had come and given us peace with God.
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{Pine Branch Frame}
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