I have these childhood memories of Christmas time, ones like playing on the snowy hill near my grandma's old farmhouse in Saskatchewan with all the cousins, while the parents slaved away in the kitchen – tasting wide varieties of wine.
Or all those Christmases when the parents would force all the kids to bed early on Christmas Eve, only to let us sneak up early the next morning, after Santa had arrived of course, to check our stockings – but don't even think of peeking into a present until the parents were up, with coffee mug in hand.
Just thinking back to those times warms my soul. Nostalgia, when embraced, can be an amazing thing.
There are those occasions when yearning for the past can lead to attempts to recreate it in present-day scenarios. Often though, I believe memories can be wonderful as they are.
Memories can become something special to keep with you as you grow older. They can be something to hold onto when you are alone or away from those you love.
Memories are something humans are blessed with and something many of us take for granted.
I remember those college days when I wasn't able to make it home for the holidays.
I would spend entire evenings reminiscing about the spirit of my childhood and the great times had with the wonderful people in my life. And I am forever grateful to have had those memories to keep me company during those cold winter months.
Though the nostalgic feelings can be sad, even depressing, feelings are meant to be had and remain relative. Without sad feelings, there couldn't be happy ones.
So take care of your memories — the good, the bad and the uncategorized. You never know when they may leave you.
And, if you happen to be struggling for a late Christmas gift idea, Alzheimer's research is always in need of donations. Alzheimer's is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a person and their family and friends.
For more information on Alzheimer's Disease or ways to donate, visit The Alzheimer's Society of Canada website at www.alzheimer.ca
