With the most wonderful time of the year upon us, residents’ families reflect on their favorite festive memories with their loved ones.
Linda Kelley shares these lovely memories with her mother, Helen Gagnon.
My mother made the holidays truly amazing. She would plan the menu and start weeks ahead. I am amazed at the level of planning and preparation that my mother did each year!
On Christmas Eve, my grandparents, aunts and uncles would visit and Mom would make Lobster Newburg and Chinese chop suey. The next day, we’d gather for a turkey dinner with all the fixings and desserts that covered the entire table. The best china was used, and the love of family was plentiful.
We always had fun decorating together as a family. Our tree may have been small, but the consensus among our family and friends was unanimous: Best Tree Ever! My mother also made sure that we set up the manger every year, teaching us that Christmas was not only about Santa but the birth of Jesus.
Dad always captured the ‘Kodak moments’ with his video camera. I’ll never forget the bright light that greeted us as we excitedly came out of our rooms and sat under the tree. We were always excited to sit by the tree and open our presents Christmas Event with family members all around.
Through Christmas, Mom taught us the importance of family love in our lives.