Today was our family Chanukah party. In years past, this major family event was hosted in Greenwich Village by our great aunt and uncle. There were lots of games, food, family and of course, the gifts. I remember those parties very well- the dreidal games, my great aunt's bottomless candy dishes and great aunts and uncles who loved nothing more than indulging the grand-nieces and nephews. What touched us the most was that my sister was always remembered by some of the great aunts and uncles, even though she went into institutional care at age 6.
Now sadly, Nanny and Pappy have crossed over- where Nanny is no doubt winning bridge hands and Pappy is entertaining at the piano. And yet, the more things change, the more things stay the same. But, I always miss them most this time of year- because the family Chanukah party is part of my earliest memories- and they continued well into adulthood-the Robins/Himmell family are tough old birds. Every single one of them made it to at least 94.
My aunt and uncle have taken over the tradition now. There are young cousins- and it is comforting to see them enjoy as much as we did. It doesn't matter that they are celebrating Christmas and Chanukah. What does matter is that my cousins are allowing my aunt to instill those good family memories in the kids. My aunt went all out- the tablecloth, napkins, condiment spreaders were all Chanukah themed. She really lives for these family events- and I know how hard it is on her physically. So, I am grateful for the effort- even though my inner Pagan is screaming, "STOP THE HOLIDAY MADNESS!"
Today, we gathered around the table to kosher deli, homemade applesauce and potato latkes. We lit the menorah, sang the candle blessings and traditional songs. My cousins and I sat on the floor with the kids and played dreidel for gold chocolate coins. We were surrounded by photos of all the great aunts and uncles, so it was kind of like old times again. I never could figure out how 150 people squeezed into Nanny and Pappy's apartment, but somehow it worked.
And, finally, the kids got their rewards. Oh boy, did they get their rewards. Much as I bitched about the extra holiday shopping, when the kids opened their ITune and Build A Bear Cards, it was all worth it. And, I got a surprise gift- the girls' parents are setting up a date for the kids to go to the big Build A Bear store on 5th Avenue- and invited me to come along for a very special shopping trip.
I am reminded that family is very important- and while I still prefer the peace and tranquility of my friends' company, slowly we grow closer as adults than we ever were as kids.
Some very nice moments this afternoon- and Dad, wisely kept his distance. And now, I'm unplugging and enjoying our blizzard.
Blessings,
Rachel
No comments:
Post a Comment