Yes, we still enjoy the gift-giving part of the season, but it’s this time together that truly matters. It’s our collective gift. A chance to reconnect, laugh, and create memories. Sometimes life gets in the way—new grandkids or new jobs—but the invitation is always open. And that's what we cherish as the Rondenet/Smith/Johnson/McDonnell family!
Even with this new tradition, our family still treasures the classic holiday rituals: cooking a turkey, getting the Christmas tree, sharing Christmas dinner. These moments are even more special with grandkids in the mix—resisting the urge to spoil them is a battle I gladly lose every year! Watching their little faces light up as they see the gifts under the tree gives me so much joy. And it gives me even more joy to watch my children's faces glow as they witness their own kids’ joy. It’s the ultimate gift.
Christmas is about pausing the chaos of life to truly savor the people we love. It’s a time to step back, slow down, and enjoy the laughter, the stories, and the simple pleasure of being together. As our family grows, so does the joy. Every year brings new faces, new memories, and more reasons to celebrate this incredible season of togetherness and community around the table.
This is the heart of the season. What it has always been about for our family and what we hope to keep and share for years to come.
Laurette Rondenet is CEO of Edlong Flavors, the host of Owning Your Legacy podcast, and a mother of five boys. Her podcast ranks in the top 10% of all podcasts on Apple where she invites other leaders to discuss the legacy they will leave behind. Listen to the Owning Your Legacy podcast.
lauretterondenet.com/podcast