The holidays will be different this year. We’ll celebrate with one set of grandkids a week early, another on Christmas Day and other family members after the 25th.

Gifts will be also simpler this year as my shopping legs recover from my recent knee surgery. Some things are a necessity, however. We (as in, my husband) did get the tree up. And I was able to hobble around to decorate it with a few choice ornaments.

Knowing I need to prioritize my energy this year, I asked my daughter, who will be visiting from New Mexico, what she is most looking forward to over the holiday.

“I just want to cook in the kitchen with you … and ride the horses,” she replied.

That makes me happy … and relieved. It may sound corny, but we often cherish shared experiences much longer than what we unwrap from under the tree.

My favorite memories — and those of my children — center around holidays with parents and grandparents. Each year at my folks’ home in Albuquerque, my mom would perch her old roaster on top of the dryer in the utility room adjacent to the kitchen. She’d be the first one up Christmas morning to “put the bird in” and continued to cluck over when it would be done until it was time to sit down for the meal.

Traditions change. My rancher husband is not much of poultry guy even though he graciously eats it every Thanksgiving. Last time I made chicken soup, he commented, “You know what would make this even better? Some beef.”

Other holiday traditions are etched into our lives forever. Christmas Eve has always been reserved for candlelight church service and a drive around town to look at lights. And when we arrive home, we celebrate with a cup of eggnog — an incredibly rich holiday beverage that must, in my opinion, be sprinkled with nutmeg. Just because.

With my holiday baking somewhat sidelined this year, I was thankful that the grandkids were just as delighted with the gingerbread house kits I got for them to decorate. I realize, too, that they have grown up and really enjoy baking on their own. This is a perfect year to open up the kitchen and watch them continue the Christmas cookie tradition.

This year, I’ve had more time to think about what Christmas truly means. How simple yet profound was that first celebration in a cattle barn. Some brought extravagant gifts. Others had nothing to give but themselves.

My prayer is that this holiday brings you special joy. Embrace each moment. Don’t worry too much about the extra calories. Celebrate what you do have and let go of what may not be perfect. Most of all, remember the promise of Christmas that will outlast everything else. Have a very Merry Christmas.

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