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Growing up, as with many of us, I was always looking out for the Christmas catalog to arrive in our mail with the goal of perusing the pages to make my selection from the coolest toys on the market.
I remember the years of sneaking through the house on Christmas morning to see how many packages were under the tree, and - perhaps - even counting to see who had the most among myself and my siblings.
As I got older, though, those catalogs and the number of presents became less important. I found myself staying in bed a little longer, or holding off on tearing into the wrapping paper. Sitting with family, participating in traditions and enjoying the day was the focus.
Here in the U.S., we have a more commercialized holiday season, with the attention going to shopping, watching television and movies, and making a big splash with holiday parties and big celebrations.
I sometimes look to other countries, though, and, while those elements certainly exist, it is interesting to see the traditional elements of the holiday which have held up through decades and centuries.
The Christmas Pickle is thought to have started in Germany (some also claim it was Spain). The idea today is to hide a pickle-shaped ornament somewhere on the Christmas tree, and the person who finds it either receives an extra gift or is promised good luck in the year ahead.
In Caracas, Venezuela, residents travel to Mass on Christmas morning on roller skates.
Finland celebrations start with a visit to the sauna on Christmas Eve.
One of my favorites is the tradition in Iceland of giving and receiving books on Christmas Eve, and then gathering around the fire and reading them together.
These days, my family has established certain days to visit relatives, a special food item we have for breakfast on Christmas morning, and, if possible, we try to get together to watch at least a couple of movies. At times we've been known to drive to different light displays in the region or go to a local theatrical production.
We've had ups and downs during the holiday season, and, especially in recent years, our family has more fully recognized the importance of time together, learning from each other and passing on the traditions and values from generations past.
The tree is up, decorations are out, and we will be together as much as possible this weekend, sharing meals and memories.
My wish for everyone reading this is to take the time to do some of the same, and remember what is important, not only this holiday season, but throughout the year.
(Howell, a resident of Colliers, is managing editor of The Weirton Daily Times, and can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com or followed on Twitter @CHowellWDT)