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As with many of you, all of my grandparents come from different backgrounds/countries/customs. Here's what I remember about each:
Carol Pillsbury (my paternal grandma). Carol was Swedish and I remember she LOVED to bake this time of year. She especially loved to bake Swedish Rosettes!! This past weekend, the kids and I tried our hand at making this festive Swedish treat-traditionally made during this time of year. Let me tell you they are DELICIOUS, like mini funnel cakes (hell to the yes). Topped with powdered sugar they are to die for. Fun Fact: today (December 13th) is St. Lucia's day in Sweden. The celebration comes from stories that were told by Monks who first brought Christianity to Sweden. St. Lucia's Day is now celebrated by a girl dressing in a white dress with a red sash round her waist and a crown of candles on her head. Jordan loved hearing about the Swedish traditions and how they celebrate Christmas.
Alan Pillsbury (my paternal grandpa). Al was from an English background. I actually knew his mother (Grandma Grape as she was known). His mother sailed over from England when she was roughly 16 or so. The kids and I looked up how the English celebrate Christmas. Since both of my in-laws are English I sort of figured we would cover our bases by Christmas. Here's how we celebrate with the other side of the pond. Typically we have a traditional dinner on Christmas night. Sticky Toffee Pudding is a favorite in our household as is having a Christmas Cracker sitting on our plates. I picked these up this year and I can't wait for the kids to try them out! We will also be having a friend of the family over as well. She just sent over the most wonderful basket of English food and biscuits to try---aren't all holidays food centered?
Sharon Covington (my maternal grandma). Sharon was dutch! Jordan and I looked up the name for Santa--which she thought was hilarious- it's Sinterklass. That's where the name Santa Claus came from (the more ya know!). Traditionally, and even today, children left out shoes (instead of stockings) in front of the fireplace so that Sinterklass would
Jon Covington (my maternal grandpa). Jon was a quarter (or half--not sure) Native American. Since I work with an exclusive Native American population here in Washington, I've learned a few things about the "Christmas" traditions of the Native community! Most Native American still hold in high regard the Winter Solstice. The holiday season (for my native families) is a time to look forward to what is coming in the new year. Since my family is from the Iroquois tribe, they celebrated winter solstice a little differently. Some tribes slept early “to dream”. So, we plan on celebrating this culture by "dreaming" in front of the fireplace--enjoying the glow of the tree just a little bit longer.
I hope I've inspired you to seek out your own family histories and make some fun NEW memories that your kids can share in!
12 more sleeps until Christmas!!!
Xoxo
Jaimee Lynne
Fun to read J. Hope you are having a wonderful holiday season. Christmas is coming. I miss you all. Love Dad.
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