My childhood memories would not be complete without the mention of Christmas in the Catskill Mountains. There are soooo many memories! Band and choir concerts, candlelight church service, caroling, wrapping presents, homemade cookies, decorating the tree, snowflakes, paper chains, and delicate ornaments. Stockings filled with coal, carrots, and tin-foil goodies. Reindeer footprints in the snow. Snow angels! Cutting the tree in the woods. Ice skating on the pond. Sitting on Santa's knee. Hand-knitted wool hats and scarves with tassels. Time with families and friends. And, thanks especially to my mom, always tons of .... hugs!