A Christmas to Remember

As the holiday season unfolds in the Crowsnest Pass, I’m struck by how Christmas brings out a mix of emotions—joy for the traditions I’ve always loved, and heartache for the ones that feel different this year. 

It’s my first Christmas without my mother, who was a vibrant presence in every celebration. While her absence leaves a void, this season remains a time of reflection, family, and cherishing the simple joys that make the holidays so special.

Though I’m not religious, I’ve always loved the festivities of Christmas. The twinkling lights adorning houses, the delicious aroma of baking wafting through the air, and the warmth of family gatherings have always been my favourite parts of the season. This year, I’ll hold those traditions even closer, finding comfort in the joy they bring.

I’m especially looking forward to spending time with my brother, dad and three young nephews over the holidays. At their age, my nephews are bursting with energy and excitement, reminding me of the magic I felt as a child. Their laughter will undoubtedly lighten the mood and bring moments of happiness that feel even more precious this year. 

While my mom won’t be there to share in our festivities, I plan to honour her memory in ways that feel true to the kind of person she was. One of those ways will be through baking. Her ginger snaps and butter tarts were family staples, and I’m determined to recreate them, or at least try at one point, not just to fill the house with the delicious smells of her kitchen, but to bring a piece of her into our celebrations. She had a gift for turning ordinary moments into something magical, and her baking was an extension of that.

The lights, too, have taken on a deeper meaning for me this year. I’ve always loved the way Christmas lights transform even the darkest nights into something beautiful.

Another way I’ll honour my mom is through a new tattoo I’ll be getting on December 27. It’s a way to carry her with me, a permanent tribute to the love, joy, and strength she brought to my life. I’ve always found tattoos to be deeply personal markers of meaningful moments, and this one feels especially important. It’s a step toward finding my own way to navigate life without her physical presence while keeping her close.

Christmas this year will undoubtedly be different, but it will also be filled with love and gratitude for the time I’ve had with those I hold dear. From the joyful chaos of my nephews tearing into their presents to the quiet moments of baking a few of her recipes, I’ll carry my mother’s legacy forward.

To anyone else who might be facing a loss this holiday season, I hope you find comfort in the memories you cherish and the people who are still by your side. Christmas has a way of reminding us that even in our grief, there’s room for light, love, and connection. And for those of us who find the greatest joy in the festivities—whether it’s the baking, the lights, or just the feeling of togetherness—I hope this season gives you a little extra magic to hold onto.

To everyone celebrating this Christmas, I hope it’s full of joy, laughter, and great food. And if it’s a little bittersweet for you too, know that it’s okay to create new traditions while cherishing the old ones.

Merry Christmas, and may your holidays be as bright as the lights and as warm as the cookies straight from the oven!