Family and Christmas by Karen Ruhl

I love reading stories about Christmas and how families share traditions and food recipes. One of my earliest memories was when I was 3 years old. I received a nurses kit for Christmas, a little white nurses bag with all of the tools needed for me to take care of my family.

I would take my thermometer and check everyone’s temperature. I had a stethoscope and listened to everyone’s heart. But the fun thing, although I laugh at it now, is that the kit came with a strip or two of candy pills.

I was always happy when my brother Ron, who was 2 years older than me asked if I wanted to play with my nurse kit. He would be so patient as I went through all of the procedures and gave him a shot with my pretend needle, and wrapped him with bandages. Then he would say he thought he might need medicine and I happily gave him a pill or two. Thankfully, those little candy strips were available at the store and I believe my parents kept me well supplied for a time.

The most touching Christmas was when I was 6. My dad had been hurt on the job and out of work for some time. With Christmas coming, he was getting nervous and sad. He sat on the end of his bed and hung his head which made me sad because I didn’t know why he was so sad.

On Christmas Eve, there was a knock on the door and Santa arrived along with many helpers. They brought in Christmas presents and food. We were a family of 7 at that time, my oldest brother had married and moved out. Of course as kids, we thought Santa brought all of the goodies. But as I got older, I realized it was the local church that we went to.

This is my most touching memory. It is good to give back all of the time, but in 2020, please look for those in need, and give or volunteer at your church programs. These memories last a lifetime and change many lives.

Merry Christmas.