In the spirit of thanksgiving, this week’s Five Minute Friday spins off the word GIVE. So, for the next five minutes, let’s give it shot.
The timer is set, so let’s GO
One of the traditions Karen and I stumbled upon and tried to give to our kids while they were growing up was watching Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas as our first Christmas movie of the season. Back in 1978 when it was introduced as a one hour special, my kids were nine, six and three, with two others still a twinkle in my eye. They looked forward to it when it was re-aired in 1980. It became a staple after its release to VHS tape in 1983, this time with 14, 11, eight and four year olds gathered around the bowl of popcorn staring with rapt attention to the television screen. And it remained a Christmas tradition almost continually since. Even after the kids left the nest, Karen and I would snuggle up to the DVD. I can’t count the times I wiped away a tear from Karen’s eyes {and battled my allergies} during the song When the River Meets the Sea.
I think the kids appreciated their first Christmas gift of the season. It was something we could enjoy together and even after they grew up, they seemed to migrate back home to watch the film, often with their children in tow.
Times change. I still try to share it with the grandkids whenever possible. But it might be time for a new tradition.
Friday night, I planned the show for three of my granddaughters… STOP
… My eight and nine year olds were not impressed and, in fact, spent more time “visiting” the kitchen for food and passing notes to each other than actually watching Jim Henson’s classic film. My 14 year old was quiet but I’m not totally sure how attentive she was. She had her tablet with her which, I think, commanded more of her attention.
I must say, my heart sank at their response. I understand the film is somewhat campy and the characters are puppets and marionettes — with strings easily seen. But it has a good message about taking a chance … about being good and doing good outweighing riches. It was and is a feel good story with then state-of-the-art production techniques. But it is 36 years old.
Call me old fashioned. Call me a traditionalist. Call me conservative. In fact, I’m looking forward to next week’s Peter Pan Live!
So, give me those memories … and give my grandchildren something that can build memories.
That’s my five minute plus rant for week. See what hundreds of others think at Kate’s place, http://katemotaung.com/2014/11/27/five-minute-friday-give/. You won’t be disappointed.
THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: Live your life … Take chances … Don’t wait because right now is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll be ever again.
The Light 
I LOVE this movie and am thankful for this tradition. In fact, I just ordered a new copy for a special movie night with Gavin.
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Good for you!
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My family always has a tradition of watching A Christmas Story every year This year, I’m not sure that tradition will live on, with everyone gathered. This makes me see how precious the years before really are, and sometimes keeping them alive to remind you joy can find you again, isn’t a bad thing. Thank you for writing this. I pray God leads you to something all of your grandkids and you can enjoy this year and years to come. Without technology or note passing 🙂
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Thanks … Their reaction just caught me off guard. I try to keep a intergenerational connection alive but sometimes it seems its a losing battle with technology and that makes me sad. The kids don’t know or communicate with their out of town cousins. But, that’s life in the 21st century.
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You’re welcome 🙂 I understand. I know what it is like sharing your heart and it not being received in the way you would hope, God see your heart and I know He will make a way for you to share.
The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Sam.16:7) Don’t lose hope, He’ll make a way. 🙂
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I can imagine your disappointment when they weren’t enthused, but you will find a new tradition to share with them. You will. And it will probably happen without you realising it, to establish itself for you all right there before you all. Wonderful.
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I’m sure I will. Their reaction just caught me off guard. Thanks for the thoughts.
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Hah! Children have a habit of doing that, I find 😉 Hope you’re having a lovely weekend. Best wishes!
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Oh I love this Joe! I love that this tradition has kept on through the generations… I’m sorry that it is not captivating the new (not so) Littles as much as it did your own. I have one Girlie – and this is our first year as empty nesters. She is HUGE in traditions and has already informed us of what must wait until she is present! Praying you find something just as powerful and meaningful to watch with the grands that will capture all of your hearts!
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There are plenty of traditions. This one just caught me off guard. Have a blessed Christmas
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