December 24, 2025: The Christmas Countdown (Day 12)

Growing up, Christmas Eve had an address.

Everett Street.

It served as the North Star, because that’s where my grandparents lived in Burlington, N.C. On Christmas Eve, our family would gather in their front room, which was hardly ever used.

But the space came alive with its main job each year.

A big meal always started the night. Then my brother and I would beg for the gift-giving, and once everyone had their seats, we’d pull presents from under the tree and deliver them to each person. Afterward we crowded around the TV. The local news reported the mysterious blip on the radar, following Santa’s whereabouts.

Fast forward four decades later. I’m still spending this special evening at the home of grandparents, just different ones now. A new generation. My kids’ turn.

We attended a service at Wave Church in Virginia Beach with the fam (all our clan, plus Mia, Papa, Chad, Michelle, Jack, and Carter). Then we drove back to Norfolk for dinner at Mia and Papa’s home.

Christmas Eves have come and gone many times. The cast has grown, and new characters have been added.

But the love is always the same.