Family traditions

One thing that I have been thinking about over the holidays is various family traditions. What would my boys remember from each holiday season? What do I remember from my childhood? There are many things that stand out to me, but one thing that I think makes my family unique.

Every year there are various articles about "how much to tip whom" for holiday "bonuses." 35% (conservatively speaking) to your hairdresser, babysitter, accountant, etc. Something to those individuals that make your life easier. However, I have never seen an article address those individuals that REALLY do make a difference to our lives.

My mother each year would make up a batch of goodies for our disposal man (aka the trash man), mailman and newspaper man. I have proudly taken up this tradition, and let me tell you it is more rewarding than many of the other gifts I give throughout the holiday season. I watch out the window (when I can) to see them get their little present (it really isn't much, usually homemade cookies and candy in a tin). I am never disappointed in the smile. What has been happening the last couple of years, is that I get a note in return wishing me happy holidays and many heartfelt wishes and greetings. That note carries such a positive energy that it is placed up with all the other greeting cards we get. I KNOW that we have made someone's day.

Our trashman earned his cookies this year- all the diapers! The postal man- many more cards (and bills). The recycling man- so many toy boxes. The newspaper man- he still brings the weekend reprieve. And you must admit, these individuals NEVER let you down. These things always get done. Unfortunately, I don't see many others who have joined in on this tradition. I hope my sons someday want to trot the mailman's present out to him. So, I challenge you to do what you can. And really, as you see, it doesn't take much. The holiday week is still upon us!