How we celebrate Christmas is deeply rooted in cultural, social, and family traditions. I feel that many of these traditions have been under attack from over-commercialization, the media and politicos in the name of political correctness. Always one to see a silver lining, I think Hurricane Sandy has wiped out a lot of the superficial aspects of the holiday season and there is a return to the important aspects of Christmas.

                Every challenge brings opportunities. A while back in the "estate planning" section of the Wall Street Journal there was an article on the importance of passing on more than just the financial assets to the next generations. More and more families are trying to impart a sense of who they are, the values of their upbringing, and the traditions that make them a family.

                Christmas is a perfect opportunity to do this. Remember back to your childhood. What were the important aspects of your celebration? What things were repeated year after year? My father worked very hard in the bakery and never went to midnight mass, but always in the morning. I really wanted to go to midnight mass. Mom said I could go when I was 13. At age 12 my older brother said I could go with him. Boy was I ecstatic. For the next 8 years I always attended midnight mass with my brother; even if it meant traveling to another parish to do so. Everyone has certain little family traditions. You may not realize it but the younger generations are watching you. Your traditions and more importantly your values will probably show up in the future. Some are little things. On Christmas morning I always make my secret recipe French toast. (psst. The secret is a little cinnamon sugar in the egg mixture)  Don't forget to use real maple syrup. Each of my 3 boys now make the same French toast for their special breakfasts. However the big things are also transmitted.

                One of my most precious Christmas moments came when our family was walking into St. Patrick's church and a customer came up to Carole and me and said, "Thank you for helping make our family Christmas special. The Bakery is a huge part of our Christmas tradition." I don't think my feet hit the ground the rest of the day.

                My Christmas wish to you is a tradition of hope and joy in the little things every day that can be repeated generation after generation.