Reflections on My Favorite Holidays: Christmas and Halloween

As I reflect on the many holidays that have brought joy to my life, two stand out particularly—Christmas and Halloween. Both hold special memories from my childhood and early adolescence, shaping who I am today. In this article, I delve into these cherished holidays and explore why they remain favorites in my heart.

Christmas: The Magic of Anticipation

Christmas was always a time of great wonder and excitement in my household. Raised by my grandparents, the joy of the season was heightened by their unwavering dedication to making every celebration unforgettable. My grandmother, Oma, observed Advent with a wreath and a chocolate calendar, which always brought an element of anticipation to the season. On Christmas Eve, she would take me to attend the Midnight Mass, a tradition that added to the sacredness of the holiday.

The church's changing liturgical colors, the elaborate decorations, and the liturgy itself all contributed to building up my excitement. My grandfather, Opa, would bring home a Christmas tree on some weekday and work tirelessly to level it. I would always know when the tree was up because Oma would pick me up from school in her 1968 gold Lincoln Continental, a car that exuded excitement and adventure.

We would spend the afternoon decorating the tree, untangling lights, and arranging old handmade decorations. The star or angel on top was usually the most challenging part, but it was also the most rewarding. We eagerly awaited Opa’s return from work to see the fruits of our labor. After the tree was decorated, Oma would fill the space beneath it with gifts, wrapped up and stashed away for months.

Halloween: Nights of Adventure and Free Time

Another holiday that holds a special place in my heart is Halloween. As a child, Halloween was not just a day, but a complete adventure. It was a time when we could run free through the whole town at night, explore every nook and cranny, and engage in all sorts of activities. The shaving cream and egg fights were a highlight, filled with excitement and unbridled fun.

During my pre-teen and early teenage years, Halloween took on a new dimension. There were hayrides during which we could find a girl, talk to her, and even make out under the cover of darkness. This era of my life was full of youthful energy and exploration, but it also faced a different kind of challenge.

On a school band bus returning from a football game on Halloween night almost 44 years ago, I first became involved with the girl who would become my wife. This moment marked a turning point in my life. My relationship with her has continued to shape my life in profound ways, making me appreciate that night and that holiday even more.

Why They Are My Favorites

Both Christmas and Halloween have a unique place in my memories. Christmas embodies the magic of anticipation and the joy found in simple traditions. It is a time of reflection and gratitude, where the past year is honored, and the new one is celebrated.

Halloween, on the other hand, is a time of adventure and exploration. It reminds me of the carefree days of my youth and the fun that can be had in the simple aspects of life. It also highlights the importance of seizing the moment and cherishing experiences.

These holidays have not only created wonderful memories but have also shaped my personal growth and life choices. They remind me of the simplicity of joy and the importance of cherishing every moment.

In conclusion, Christmas and Halloween remain my favorite holidays because of the cherished memories they created and the lasting impact they had on my life. Each holiday tells a unique story of love, anticipation, and adventure, making them invaluable in my personal journey.