Every year my father gathered fragrant pine boughs and formed them into a glorious, large round wreath. As was the tradition, it hung by red ribbons from a pine stand with a star in the center.
My favorite traditional Christmas music filled the air while the fire burned in the distance. Angelic choir voices, the deep baritone of Jonny Mathis, tradional German Christmas songs, American favorite Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer... added to the magical times.

Every Sunday evening, the family gathered together around the table with the wreath. Each Sunday before Christmas one of the four candles would be lit.

The most magical time of all, I recall is, reading Christmas stories and tales together. We treasured the old books, their stories and poems, and read them out loud. Each child then had to memorize a poem or learn a song to play on Christmas eve. by the Christmas tree.

I've carried on this tradition with my family, but add something new to the Christmas tree -- shells and treasures from the sea where I spent much of my time as a child and love so much.

Bring Some Joy to the Animals at the Pound
Even though you can't adopt them all, you can buy little treats at the counter or bring some doggie and kittie treats to share with the animals. Maybe volunteer to walk and play with them too. Check these shelter links or your phone book for a shelter near you.

Listen to the Song of a Gentle Giant of the Sea
Surf the Internet with your child. Listen to a whale song and see pictures of the majestic giants of the sea -- the whales. Whale Nursery

Take your child on a nature walk.

Send an Online Greeting Card.