A Christmas tribute
REMEMBER WHEN
As a boy growing up, Christmas was a magical time of the year. We always had a fresh tree in the living room as well as at least two by the front door outside and decorated with lights.
Dad always got us in the pickup and we went hunting for just the right tree. In those days you didn’t need written permission from the landowner to cut a tree for the holiday as word of mouth was good anywhere in Maine.
After finding the tree and getting it home, we would take the time to trim it just right, always with tinsel, garlands, bulbs and balls and lights. We would sit and watch the holiday shows on TV and, of course, we would have “The Night Before Christmas” as at least one night’s bedtime story.
Christmas eve would find cookies and milk set out for the Jolly Old Elf and carrots for the reindeer. Then the next morning we just knew Santa had visited.
Now as I think back on those days, it wasn’t the presents or the tree or the cookies and the huge meal. It wasn’t the snow or the date or the tradition. It was the family getting together and sharing the special time with everyone. Aunts, uncles, cousins brothers and sisters and Mom and Dad were all there.
I miss those days long ago when I think of it. My sons are grown and have lives of their own and their jobs have them in different parts of the country now. Gone are the decoration marathons and trudging through the woods for the trophy tree that is “much better than last year.”
If I can I would like to challenge you all. Please, take the time to spend precious moments with family this year. Call a loved one or visit that special friend. You may be just what that person needs to help them “Remember When …”
Merry Christmas Aroostook County from the Woodworth house to yours!
Guy Woodworth of Presque Isle is a 1973 graduate of Presque Isle High School and a four-year Navy veteran. He and his wife Theresa have two grown sons and five grandchildren. He may be contacted at lightning117_1999@yahoo.com.
