The Star

There is a tradition that runs deep in my family. It's not one that my immediate family practices but it is one that I have grown up with. Ever since I can remember my dad has made sure that we all have a turn putting the star on the tree. There are lots of pictures faded with time showing Michelle with a "bowl" hair cut and terry cloth jumpsuit reaching for the top of the tree while in Dad's arms. There is a picture of me giggling while wearing shorts and flip flops (Christmas in south Texas) placing the star on the tree while Dad is bending the top limb so it would be easier to reach. Finally, a picture of Amanda smiling with just a shirt and diapers with a kool-aid mustache (third child syndrome) looking at the camera while holding the star, her grip is strong and it was probably a struggle to get her to let go.
We continue this tradition with the grand kids. Yesterday Jackson was given the honor of putting the star on the tree while in my dad's arms. He was so excited with the loud applause that followed his effort. I know this sounds silly to some but you have to know the story behind this star.
About 40 yrs ago my mom and dad were in Virginia because of the military. They bought a tree for Christmas and decorated it with their meager collection of ornaments and while it was beautiful it was missing a star. They didn't have any money to buy a star so my dad cut one out of cardboard and wrapped it in foil. Ever since that Christmas we have used the same star. Mom tried one year to put an angel on the top of our tree and we had a hissy! That star is so special to us and represents such a wonderful image and memories we hold in our hearts. Mom doesn't even try anymore and she loves it as much as we do. It's been re-wrapped a couple of times but it is the same cardboard and it is so neat to hold it in my hands and think that something so simple could last for so long.
What is your favorite tradition?