Christmas Memories

Last night Eric and I watched Rudolph. I’ve been having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit this year. Watching Rudolph was my attempt at resurrecting it because it is one of my fondest Christmas memories of my mom.

I must have been around 5 years old. It must have been a week or two before Christmas and I was sick. I had a very painful ear infection. Now, back in 1975, Rudolph (and all the other Christmas specials) were only broadcast once during the season. We didn’t have a way to record it and watch it later. It was a one shot deal so being sick on the night that Rudolph was showing was a tragedy for my little 5 year old self. Prepping for the show required all of us to do our nighttime routine a little early. So we were all clean and in our jammies. I remember my ear hurting so badly. I remember my mom laying on the couch and I laid on top of her with my sore ear resting on her warm body. I remember the warmth feeling so good on my ear. I remember watching Rudolph, feeling sick and also excited for Christmas. I remember how good it felt to lay on my mom. Every time I watch Rudolph I think of that night. I remember her tenderness and love and feel grateful she was my mom.