Christmas Traditions

We were blessed by the annual visit of Mike and Jerilyn Malone with "Aunt" Sheila Lisman. I don't know when their annual visit started but they are as consistent as Christmas. I taught the Malone's children, Jenny and Mark, in the South High vocal music department as well as in musical theatre productions. This first picture shows from left to right Aunt Sheila, Mike and Jerilyn with Joshua Grace and Velda in the foreground.

Velda opens a gift while Jerilyn looks on.

Grace looks at the book "Because of Winn-Dixie" from Aunt Sheila. We also have a little bit of history with her. Years ago we painted her house in Hutchison. We visited at least one other time to affect some repairs. It was enjoyable to stay in her house while we worked.

Here's a picture of all three. Sheila and Jerilyn are sisters.

That same evening another tradition of sorts was continued. For years, again I don't know how many, we have received a monetary gift anonymously. In the past it was received by mail in the form of cash with a note. This time none other than Santa himself appears on our porch. He handed me a box of Hickory Farms cheese and sausage with a red envelope. Inside the envelope was a monetary gift in cash with a note. I feel that it was especially meaningful that it was delivered by a person dressed as Santa Claus because the historical Nicholas was a saint dedicated to giving.