A proud mom shares her family’s tradition of celebrating Christmas.

“Merry Christmas!”We would all exclaim as the clock struck twelve midnight on Christmas Eve. Just then, our uncle would play “Merry Christmas Polka” on the LP player. We would all dance and sing around, “Come on and dance the Merry Christmas Polka…” for some good ten minutes until we’ve danced around with everyone. Laughter, singing, and so much love filled the air.

After the final replay of the song was done, all of us - my grandparents, together with my dad’s eight brothers and sisters, and their families - would gather by the altar and sing…

Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you

On the altar was a well-dressed image of the Child Jesus (Santo Nino)…

Read more: Happy Birthday, Jesus!