Over the holidays we get updates from our family in the Philippines, I wanted to share a special family tradition that they continue annually and that we support. It’s something our grandpa and grandma Arcilla started. 

They host games for the village children in their neighborhood. We have learned so much being part of such a loving tradition while we were growing up. I hope to bring our children to see this someday.

This year I asked my dad how this tradition started in the first place. I was quite surprised by the answer. 

He said Ima (his mother), made more than enough noodles and lugaw (congee) one day around Christmas for her 10 children. Because of this, she asked her kids to invite other children around the neighborhood to come. It became a day of games and food which happens every year. It has evolved and become an anticipated event in their town.

I was surprised by the answer because it was so simple. An everyday event that could have simply turned in a different direction.

Isn’t it amazing how traditions begin? It came from a place of generosity and love. A simple moment that could have passed. The extra food could have been stored but instead, it continues to bring nourishment and joy till now.

I still recall when we were little watching the games and the joy it brought everyone. I do believe my foundation of family and generosity has been encouraged by this tradition. 

Closer to home, a tradition was also being made in our own little family.

My daughter Camryn found a Christmas mailbox cookie tin while we were bringing out our holiday decor. 

She had the wonderful idea of writing letters to each other which we can open on Christmas morning!! I suggested we decorate an envelope for one another to hold the love notes. Even the boys got into these.

Christmas morning came this year and we exchanged our letters. The words that jumped out of the pages had me tearing up, and I was surprised at the tight hugs I received from our daughters as they read their letters. My husband and I looked at each other knowing that we are witnessing something special.

I’m so happy we took this opportunity to appreciate one another, it’s wonderful to know your love does not go unnoticed. Our children also surprised me as they shared thoughtful words to uplift one another. 

Here is Julia’s letter to Camryn. A cherished gift.

And to think, if we didn’t nurture Camryn’s idea and encouraged her initiative, this special moment would never have happened.

We encounter moments that have the potential to be epic, we need to be on the lookout for them. What a difference it makes when we are intentional about making connections.

In sharing this, let’s nurture the moments in our families and let it spill out to our neighborhoods. Let’s continue a legacy to give love and joy in the future. Wishing you more blessings for years to come! 

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