After weeks of preparations and celebrations, Christmas has come and gone — quicker than the time left to prepare flew by, the day itself was over and done with in a flash. Yesterday, we had a small Christmas at home, opening presents in the morning, followed by Christmas morning breakfast. After breakfast, we started a competitive game of Rummy 500 — which later turned dirty as my poor sportsmanship kicked in — at least I can admit I am a sore loser after the fact. Late afternoon, I ventured over to spend some time with my boyfriend’s family, followed by dinner back at home and the conclusion of the Rummy game gone wrong. The day got me thinking about past Christmases. Christmas Eve pajamas were always my favorite tradition, one that still continues today (or, my mom says, at least until she has grandchildren to buy pajamas). This year, I got red silk pajama pants adorned with ornament, reindeer, star and present designs. Another favorite memory of mine was the year I stayed in my Christmas pajamas all day long and played with all my new board games and toys. Or there was the year, and we have the video to prove it, my mom, grandmother and I sang along to Kokomo by the Beach Boys using my new tape and new toy microphones. Or the year my dad got me, my mom and grandmother matching pajamas! And, whenever my family and extended family get together for holiday celebrations, we always bust out games — cards and other board games. Among some of the favorites – Guesstures, Catch Phrase and other high-speed guessing games. And, before you know it, it is all over. Soon, the decorations come down, the new gifts get put away and life returns to normal. No more holiday songs on the radio or decorations in shopping centers. Luckily, the holiday season brings great joy during those few festive weeks. I have a tradition of my own — I don’t like to use any of my new presents until after the new year. I like to savor the newness of them and keep them under the tree. New year, new gifts — just one of my quirks. Although this year, I did use my new Blackberry Storm, but I had to, ’cause it is going to take me weeks to figure out this new technology. Now, off to 2009 and new adventures. Time to start thinking about all those pesky resolutions! -Kimberly Krol, eFlyer editor, circulation and public relations executive