One More Thing in the Tree…

Family traditions…creating shared memories with the ones we love. They could be as simple as the weekly pizza and a movie on Friday nights or watching 4th of July fireworks from the same spot every year. These family traditions give us a sense of continuity and stability in an ever-changing world.

Longtime clients, Mike and Ann Hablitzel, have a special Christmas tradition they started with their two sons about fifteen years ago. Mike attended a seminar given by Larry Lewis at church about the book Letters from Dad by Greg Vaughn. It was about fathers wanting to leave something of lasting value to their children and grandchildren, treasured words of love and blessings for the generations.

Mike wrote his boys letters and left them in the tree on Christmas morning. Mike does not consider himself a writer, but loved telling them how proud he is of them and his hopes for their future. After all the presents were opened, it was time to reach into the tree for the boys’ letters. It was a beautiful time reading them, with tears all around.

This tradition had continued for a few years when Ann decided to get in on it! Now each family member exchanges letters every Christmas morning. Mike’s letters are typed up and not too long. Ann’s are, self- admittedly, a bit long-winded and handwritten. No matter how they come, the sentiment is the same. Reflecting on the year, the ups and downs, and through it all, the love and support of each other.

Not long ago, Ann even got the chance to chat with Larry Lewis and share the impact that seminar that Mike attended years ago had on their family!

We are so thankful Mike and Ann shared this special tradition with us, and we hope their story may inspire you to start a new family tradition of your own, whatever it may be!