As we celebrate Christmas once again, one cannot help but remember the Christmas past. I scanned this photo in the last month and it brought back many memories.

My Grandma was then named Colleen Elliott (1928-1999), married to Evan Kay Elliott (1934-2007). This was their home in Paul, Idaho.

There are quite a few presents around that tree. But what do I remember?

I remember my Uncle Doug, Aunt Linda, and cousin Brook Jonas that Christmas. They moved to Alaska in 1987. I think this was the same year Brook accidentally broke my nose. I think that year or next Grandma and Evan were divorced.

I remember getting a harmonica that Christmas that I loved and played for many years. It disappeared after my Grandma passed away while I was on a mission in England in 1999.

I remember my Uncle Willie and Aunt Jackie Melycher. They were married in 1987 in this house.

The house evokes more memories than the Christmas. Although I do recognize and remember some of the balls on the tree.

I remember loving the big dinners at Grandma’s house. I think I remember this Christmas dinner, or maybe it was Thanksgiving. It was a feast as usual. Homemade coleslaw was amazing, still do not believe I have tasted one like hers since.

Part of the meal was the homemade pies. Lemon meringue was my favorite. The pie crust cookies were the best!

I remember the guys talking in this room during the morning. I remember napping in the front room after the meal on one of the couches.

I remember building fires in the fireplace. One time the window shattered outward and made a mess.

Is it strange I want to walk through the house again? But like a funeral viewing, it gives a new memory that I think I would rather not have.

Now, back to the present. I am grateful for my family. I hope they remember Christmas fondly in the future. I hope they have pleasant memories. I hope they remember! Perhaps a photograph for them will conjure a flood of pleasant memories and feelings too. May the joys of the season remain and be recalled.

This doesn’t mention the ultimate reason for the season. But we celebrate his birthday by bringing our family close.