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Becoming Santa Claus: A New Mom's Reflections On Holiday Traditions by Christy VanBibber

Motherhood Holidays
December 09, 2024
Christy VanBibber
4 Tips 38 Followers
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Becoming Santa Claus: A New Mom's Reflections On Holiday Traditions

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This Christmas was different. (First, I should preface, I’m a tradition maniac.) Ever since I can remember, Christmas meant Christmas Eve church service, followed by a gathering at my aunt's house for yummy snacks and appetizers, home to open one gift on Christmas Eve (always new Christmas "jams," of course, because you have to be looking fly for those Christmas-morning photo ops), milk and cookies out for Santa, and off to bed with the anticipation of Christmas morning keeping me up the entire night. I LOVE CHRISTMAS.

But this year, I was the mom. I was Santa. No more new surprise footie pajamas to crawl into bed in, no more creeping down the stairs at 5 a.m. to see the one gift that Santa had left, assembled, on the mantel, waiting to be played with, before unwrapping the gifts beneath the tree. And I feel like it’s OK to say it: I missed that. I’m a child at heart. And my goodness, I love my traditions. This year...

  • I was the stocking stuffer.
  • I was the toy assembler.
  • I was the family pajama buyer.
  • I was the cookie eater and milk drinker (and I even took a bite of the carrots because, well, the reindeer have to have a snack, too).

This year I was Santa. 

This year, I'm a mom.

And that made this Christmas different, but it made it the best Christmas of all.

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Chris Miller
It’s the best! I love to share traditions and make new ones with my little man🎄😍
Like Reply 3 7 years ago
Christy VanBibber
It really is the best— I’m excited for next year when he is a bit older and will realize what’s happening! ❤️ Hope you guys had an awesome Christmas!
Like Reply 1 7 years ago
James Anderson
This heartfelt reflection on holiday traditions beautifully captures the essence of creating memories that last a lifetime. As new parents embrace the role of "Santa Claus," they also pass down cherished values and experiences to their children. The way traditions evolve with each generation adds a special layer of meaning to the holiday season. For more insights on thoughtful approaches to family care and traditions,
Like Reply a year ago
Elisa Schmitz
This is beautiful, Christy VanBibber ! I think most new parents can relate to this. It is a definite shift and it's amazing to embrace our new roles as parents, especially during the holidays. Thank you for sharing your perspective with us. Just love it! Merry Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Like Reply 1 7 years ago
Christy VanBibber
Thank you Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds ! It is a shift for sure, but a very exciting change. So nostolgic! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!
Like Reply 1 7 years ago
Ann Marie G. Halstead
Christy VanBibber : I absolutely love this. Thank you for putting into words what so many parents feel about "becoming Santa" and experiencing the holidays differently. I feel the very same- it is different but even better somehow.
Like Reply 7 years ago
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Like Reply a year ago
Kennedy Mennedy [inactive]
My name is Messiah Kennedy,There is something special about your last Name that is the reason why I contacted you so please get back to me through my private email address(b a r r.m e s s i a (@ ) g ma il . c o m
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Like Reply a year ago
James Anderson
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