A Christmas Memory and the Magic of Baking
I grew up in a home where Christmas was more than just a holiday. It was a season filled with warmth, love, and traditions that connected us as a family. With Christian beliefs at our core, the nativity scene took centre stage in our home every year.
My brothers and I would gather around with our father, who was especially talented at creating these elaborate displays. We’d spend hours arranging the figures, paying attention to the tiniest details, while the soft notes of Bing Crosby’s Christmas songs played in the background, thanks to my mum.
The Christmas tree was another beloved tradition. My mum would lead the way, and together we’d decorate it, creating an atmosphere of joy that still lingers in my memories. The smell of pine, the twinkling lights, and the laughter we shared made this season feel magical.
As I grew older and had my own family, I carried these traditions with me, determined to recreate that same sense of wonder for my daughter. One Christmas Eve, many years ago, when my daughter was only four (she’s 22 now!), I carefully set up her presents under the tree and went to bed, excited for the morning to come.
At the crack of dawn on Christmas Day, she woke me up with excitement bubbling over. Santa had come, and we rushed downstairs to see the gifts waiting under the tree. As I looked at the presents, I noticed two beautifully festive teddy bears that I hadn’t placed there. My husband had secretly added them, and for just a second, I was that little girl again, full of wonder. My eyes went wide like saucers, and I thought to myself, He's real!
That moment has stayed with me ever since. It filled me with joy, and it reminded me of the magic that exists when we choose to see the world through the eyes of a child. From that day on, I promised myself to hold onto that sense of wonder—not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.
This mindset has shaped so much of who I am, including my passion for baking. Every cake, biscuit, or gingerbread house I make is infused with that same childlike joy. I want to create things that spark happiness, not just for me, but for everyone who gets to experience them. After all, the mind is a powerful tool, and if we use it to spread joy, there’s no telling how much magic we can create in the world.
Love,
Aria.
Comments