I remember harmattan in the North like a distant memory.

The wind was always cold and crisp.

It could turn bread to stone in a matter of minutes.

The environment was always serene as school kids were on holiday and families had to stay together and relish the joy of the holidays.

Christmas preparations always involved making of ‘chin-chin’ (little fried balls of dough)

It was something that brought my siblings and I together as we’d share the rolling pin (or wine bottle in most cases).

I enjoyed the eating part a little more than the kneading, dough (pun; though)

Christmas hair! That was something I looked forward to

Shiny forehead from the generous use of ‘Soul-Mate’ hair cream,

Well plaited Ghana weaving,

Beautifully decorated with hair ruffles,

And I was set for Christmas!

Decorating the house has always been fun for me,

With little or with much, Christmas at home was always perfect,

Mom’s fried chicken, salad and lots of food to feed the neighborhood..

I was taught early that Christmas is about sharing God’s love and joy with others.

I miss the family road trips,

The movement from the drying shrubs in the Northern parts of Nigeria to the denser forest lands of the South,

The pit stops to eat and refuel.

The sleeping, the snacking, the music and sing-alongs,

And finally, meeting of cousins you hadn’t seen in a year.

Christmas shouldn’t be spent alone,

Just like the good news of Jesus’ coming shouldn’t be kept a secret.

I hope you are surrounded by friends and family who make you feel warm on the cold mornings,

And remind you of the beautiful Savior’s love for us.

Merry Christmas!!!

Lots of love,

M.