Describe your childhood experiences of Christmas

I fed my brother's visiting American girlfriend "lutefisk", the Norwegian national Christmas dish, a few years ago. It tastes like death, because it IS death. I ended what could have been a beautiful relationship, and have never let myself live it down.

For me, Christmas became something I remember being aware of around 7 years of age. Hanging out with my family at my grandparents house on Canandaigua Lake. It was a big, spacious ranch with large rooms and a big stone fireplace. I remember my grandmother trying to occupy my young mind and hands by having me sit down at her sewing machine table to try and reproduce a picture that she had of a pointsettia on a Christmas Card. I am no artist. I knew this then. I knew that I hated drawing and that it was not to be a talent I pursued or mastered. This is my first memory of Christmas.

Jason, the neighbors first name was Jim. They drove an Audi. He had emphysema and had an attack which we wittnesed.

My earliest memories of Christmas are from when I was about 5 years old. My dad and my (step)mom were married at the time, and I do not envy what I am sure they went through on those early Christmas mornings. There were 4 of us all around the same age, until my younger brother was born, then there were 5 obviously. I can't imagine or remember the noise level or excitment that I am sure took place. We always had a big heavily decorated tree. There seemed to be mountains of presents. The mess was enormous! Wrapping paper, bows and boxes everywhere in beautiful derangement. I remember hyperactivity brought on by chocolates stuffed in our stockings. At least we lived in California at that time so they were able to send us outside for a while to run around and burn off some of our energy. I enjoyed it all immensely. I am sure that my poor parents enjoy Christams with us a lot more now though. We are quieter and they only have to put up with the grandkids for a couple of hours before sending us all on our way with kisses and hugs so that they can relax in quiet solitude and recover.

nonexistent..

I agree. Kids are what make the holiday. I think that is why I am so excited about it this year. I can't wait for Isak to open his gifts! Yeah Jay. We lived in southern CA. I still have family out there.

Christmas Day with Dad's family was kinda overwhelming, but my favourite memories are of Danish Christmas on December 24th, Christmas eve. Dinner, presents, and Danish songs around the christmas tree. ;-)