I've known Christmas to be the festive season which effortlessly brings family members together from any part of the planet they might be.
I've also loved how the yuletide falls at the last month of the twelve, summing up the whole year in a fluttering and joyful ambiance for all. Talk about a breath of fresh air after meandering through a disaster.
The joy of the season radiates not just on the 25th but way back to a month before, if not far back as well as weeks after.
Go out into the streets, markets, churches, down to the whispers of kids around and you can literally smell the anticipation in all as they eagerly await the Dday.
Back then, the Christmas season for me in no particular order was a day of merriment, movement and earning and yes, my best yuletide memories was definitely from the good old days.
I can't remember the exact year but I've always tagged it as the Christmas I was the richest as a child, lol.
That certain Noel, I woke up to the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, clanking of pots, festive track vibing in the living room and the unmistakable sounds of knockouts in the streets.
As per the usual, my immediate sister and I were the only to attend the mass service while every other person stayed home, aiding in the preparations.
We both dressed up in our beautiful dresses, hats, wrist watches and glistening glasses all with a touch of red and our heels clinking as we walked by people and houses who all but spoke volumes on what the season was with their beautiful smiles and music echoing from all angles.
The mass service ended with a couple gifting the congregation in both cash and kind and damn... did that make me happy. We got home and right from the bottom of the stairs, the mouthwatering aroma of my mother's delicacies wafted through my nose and I increased my pace at once.
I couldn't wait to to kick off my heels as I dished out a gigantic quantity and devoured the meal, moaning all the way as each spoon melted in my mouth, feeling like a taste of heaven. And right beside me was a chilled drink to top off the bliss.
As the day went on, I felt myself floating in happiness as we all danced without a care, lost in the moment and enjoying every bit of it only to collapse on the couch when exhaustion slipped in.
I on my part, sealed the day with the usual visitations as was common then. Clad in my outfit once again with my mini purse hung on my arm, I left home and walked from house to house, inhabited by people I was familiar with of course.
I would wish the family the season greetings, giving off a pretty smile which is often followed by praises on my appearance and a cash gift of any amount they so wished.
On returning my home, my purse was stuffed with naira notes in different denominations amounting to a huge amount and I smiled so wide I felt my cheeks touch my ears.
Thinking back, nothing beats the love in a family. Those soft laughs, small talks and little moments together always finds a way to illuminate our lives.
This specific yuletide has been one I just can't forget. From the mass blessings to the dishes, down to the family moments and cashes I earned with all my efforts, lol, it all holds a sweet sensation to me.
馃専
