If you know me personally, you know that family is my number one. I was raised by my mother and father who are still happily married today. I grew up around a big, loving family that I am extremely close to. Growing up in Rhode Island, when the weather got colder and snow began to fall, my two younger sisters and I began our countdown to Christmas. My family and I celebrate, have Christmas dinner and open presents on Christmas Eve. We call it “Nochebuena.” It’s a Hispanic tradition.
Growing up in the United States where most people open presents on Christmas morning, my sisters and I just had to try it as kids. Of course, that didn’t last; the excitement and anticipation we felt as kids to open presents took over and we said, “Forget it.” We liked opening them close to midnight on Christmas Eve. Gifts weren’t the only things we looked forward to as kids, though; seeing our cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents was so much fun. It was always a big, fun, family gathering full of dancing, laughing and love.
This year was great once again. Although it wasn’t a big family gathering as usual, I was fortunate to spend it with the people that mean the most to me. One thing is very different than when I was younger, and that is GIVING! Seeing happy faces on the people I love is so much more rewarding. I had a blast. My sisters and I reminisced about the old days. We laughed about silly things and things we did as kids. I sat and spoke to my father about business, which he is passionate about. My mother and I chatted about random things. Thinking about my very Merry Christmas Eve puts a smile on face and my heart fills with an overwhelming amount of joy. I am so grateful to have been able to spend yet another amazing year with them and I cherish each and every moment.
As I type this, I am sitting on the plane, heading to San Francisco for vacation. Yay! Christmas in San Francisco. I am so excited to relax and enjoy some free time after a long season. I thank God for always being by my side and for helping me accomplish all that I did in 2012. I hope you all enjoyed your holidays just as much as I did!
Until next week and Happy New Year!
